Senate Launches Investigation into Flight Delays and Cancellations, Summons Keyamo and Others

The Nigerian Senate has mandated its Committee on Aviation to investigate the increasing frequency of flight delays and cancellations by airline operators across the country. The committee has been instructed to summon the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, along with the Director-General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Chris Najomo, airline operators, and other relevant stakeholders.

The resolution came after a motion was presented by Senator Buhari Abdulfatai (Oyo, APC) during Wednesday’s plenary. He highlighted the detrimental impact of persistent flight disruptions on Nigeria’s socio-economic growth and the erosion of public trust in the aviation sector.

The Senate’s investigation aims to uncover the underlying causes of these disruptions and to recommend long-term solutions that would enhance the reliability and efficiency of air travel in the country.

In a separate development, the Senate leadership has instructed its Committee on Finance to suspend further action on the proposed tax reform bills. This decision comes ahead of a scheduled high-level meeting with the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) to address contentious issues within the bills. Deputy Senate President Senator Barau Jibrin made the announcement during plenary, noting that a special committee has been formed to resolve disagreements surrounding key provisions in the legislation.

The special committee, which will be chaired by Minority Leader Abba Moro, is tasked with reconciling differences and ensuring that the bill aligns with national priorities while addressing concerns from various stakeholders. The meeting with the AGF is scheduled for Thursday, December 5.

Members of the special committee include:

• Abba Moro (Chairman)
• Tahir Monguno
• Aliero Adamu
• Kalu Orji
• Dickson Seriake
• Zam Titus
• Yahaya Abdullahi
• Adeola Solomon
• Sani Musa
• Abiru Mukhail
• The entire Senate leadership

These steps reflect ongoing efforts by the Senate to address urgent national issues while ensuring that the legislative process remains transparent and aligned with the best interests of the Nigerian people.