Keyamo Slams Atiku Over Nigeria Airways Collapse

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, has accused former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar of hypocrisy over his criticism of Nigeria’s economic and security situation, citing the collapse of the defunct national carrier, Nigeria Airways.

Keyamo made the allegations in a statement posted on his official X account on Wednesday, arguing that the administration in which Atiku served as vice-president oversaw the liquidation of the airline in September 2004.

He said the closure left thousands of workers without jobs and many struggling to receive their pensions, gratuities and other outstanding entitlements.

The minister said the former workers had waited for years for their benefits, adding that some had died before receiving the payments due to them.

According to Keyamo, President Bola Tinubu approved and released ₦36 billion more than a month ago to settle the outstanding entitlements owed to former Nigeria Airways workers.

He said beneficiaries had begun receiving payment notifications and noted that the workers’ union had recently recognised Tinubu for the intervention.

Keyamo accused Atiku of attempting to distance himself from decisions taken by the administration he served while taking credit for its achievements when politically convenient.

He argued that the former vice-president could not claim responsibility for the administration’s successes while disclaiming responsibility for controversial decisions taken during the same period.

The minister also said younger Nigerians who were unfamiliar with the history of Nigeria Airways could be misled by Atiku’s recent comments about the country’s condition.

Atiku had criticised the rising cost of living and insecurity, promising to make life more affordable and restore security if elected president. He also urged registered voters to collect their Permanent Voter Cards ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The dispute has brought renewed attention to the liquidation of Nigeria Airways and the long-standing efforts to settle the financial obligations owed to its former employees.