Nigerian Flight Deck Travel and Business Reportage
FOLLOWING media reports that have pervaded the country over alleged plans by the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) to hand over management of Arik Air to Ethiopian Airlines, the asset managers have come out to debunk the said allegation stating that it is not aware of such a transaction ans is not part of it.
In the last week, reports have flown out that the Director of International Services at Ethiopian Airline, Esayas Wolde Mariam stated that it had submitted a formal offer to take over Arik Air.
Wolde Mariam had in his interview stated that, “We have outlined our terms and conditions to the Nigerian government and we are waiting to see if they agree. We are capable and desirous of handling the airline,” the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON), supposedly the recipient of the bid had also distanced self, thus raising issues of trust and confidence on the entire issue.
However, AMCON reacted to the confusion stating,”Our attention has been drawn to a barrage of media reports, which claimed that there are discussions going on with Ethiopian Airlines for the carrier to render management services to Arik. Contrary to these reports, the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) is not aware of any current discussion or negotiation with the management of Ethiopian Airlines regarding Arik Air Limited (Arik).”
The statement signed by Jude Nwauzor, Head, Corporate Communications, AMCON stated,”Arik was placed in receivership last February, following the airline’s inability to repay debts in excess of N300 billion to AMCON and other creditors in Nigeria and around the world. It is on record that the Receivership Team has within the period stabilised the operations of the airline, marked by stability of schedules; improved On-Time-Performance (OTP) and revamped customer service among others. Today, the Airline has regained its dominance as the most reliable carrier in the country with growing passenger patronage and confidence.”
“The general public and all stakeholders will be kept duly informed on issues relating to the airline’s divestment plan.”
