Nigeria's Helcopter Ban into Abuja

Helicopter Ban: NSA Monguno is overstepping his boundaries, says Minister of Aviation

Gift Olivia Samuel, Per Second News

Abuja-Following a recent statement attributed to the National Security Adviser (NSA)General Babagana Monguno, reminding aviation authorities of the restriction of helicopter ferry flight over Abuja metropolis for security reasons, the Minister of State for Aviation Senator Hadi Sirika has come out to say that the NSA has overstepped the boundaries of his authority.

Sirika while briefing news men on Tuesday said that in Aviation or Ministry of Transportation, helicopters will operate into Abuja at the airport, adding that if the national security adviser instructed otherwise it is not within his area of jurisdiction.

 "I didnt suspend the operations of helicopters from operating within Abuja, ask the National Security Adviser. As far as we are concerned, helicopters have been flying into Abuja before the closure up to the airport and they are flying out, as far as the Ministry is concerned, that's all we know.

"It is the job of the ONSA to issue advice to Mr President on security issues, I wouldn't have the authority and knowledge as to the reason why that has happened" he said.

The minister said the public should disregard the NSA's directive.

Monguno's reminder issued on Monday to regulatory stakeholders through a memo titled “Restriction of Helicopter Ferry Flights Over Abuja Metropolis” stated that: “In view of the closure of the (Abuja) airport, air travellers will be required to travel by road/train to Abuja from Kaduna International Airport.

 "Please be reminded that the airspace over the Federal Capital Territory Abuja is controlled and only security flights or those with the requisite security clearance from the Presidency are granted overhead clearance for obvious security reasons.

"Consequently, you are to note and ensure that no charter or commercial helicopter ferry flights are allowed to fly within Abuja airspace.” Monguno said.

Last modified on Wednesday, 15 March 2017 04:47