We Spent N3bn On Consultants, Staff Salary Of Nigeria Air – Sirika

The former Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, on Sunday said less than N3 billion was spent on the controversial Nigeria Air project.

Sirika disclosed this during a news program on Arise TV news program in Abuja on Sunday.

He stated that contrary to speculations, less than N3 billion budgetary allocation has been made to Nigerian Air since the inception of the project.

Mr Sirika said reports suggesting N85 billion has been spent on the Nigeria Air project are baseless and false, adding that the bulk of the expended funds has been channelled into consultancies, salaries, and administrative costs associated with setting up the national carrier.

He said Nigerian Air would not enjoy any form of special tax privileges, as the taxes presently imposed on other airlines will also apply to Nigeria Air.

Sirikas’ comment comes following reports of alleged fraud surrounding the Nigeria Air project.