Why Having A National Carrier Is Crucial For Nigeria – Ozekhome

Prominent constitutional lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Professor Mike Ozekhome, has said it is both economically strategic and nationally symbolic for Nigeria to establish and sustain its own national carrier.

Speaking on the importance of reviving the aviation sector in a chat with DAILY INDEPENDENT, Ozekhome noted that several smaller African nations have thriving national airlines that contribute significantly to their economies and national identity.

“It is very crucial that Nigeria must have a national carrier. The last one that the immediate past administration tried to embark upon, Nigerian Air, did not succeed,” Ozekhome stated.

He cited examples of countries like Ethiopia, South Africa, and Rwanda, which have successfully leveraged their national airlines for both economic growth and international recognition.

“A national carrier is good because it brings about the pride of the nation because you will see the national flag on it. It also shows the strength and character of the country. It is also economically wise and profitable because it will link up with other airlines of the world,” he added.

Ozekhome emphasized that the ripple effects of a viable national airline would be “massive and unquantifiable,” highlighting its potential to stimulate job creation, tourism, and foreign investment.

Recalling the legacy of the now-defunct Nigeria Airways, he described it as a once-proud symbol of national unity and international presence.

“The multiplying effects are quite massive and unquantifiable. I believe that it is high time that Nigeria has her national carrier as we used to have before — that is, Nigeria Airways that was the pride of this country,” Ozekhome said.

He called on the Federal Government to take deliberate steps toward reviving the idea of a truly Nigerian-owned and managed national carrier, built on transparency, efficiency, and patriotism.