Hadi Sirika, Former Aviation Minister has formally declared his intention to contest the Katsina North Senatorial seat in the 2027 general elections, signaling a return to frontline politics despite ongoing legal and policy controversies surrounding his tenure. He said he would seek the ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC), positioning himself within the ruling party as he aims to represent his home constituency in the National Assembly.
Sirika’s announcement comes at a time when his record as minister continues to draw scrutiny, particularly over the failed Nigeria Air project and allegations of misconduct currently before the courts. Nonetheless, his declaration underscores his confidence in both his political base and his legacy in the aviation sector, which he insists has been misunderstood in public discourse.
Addressing one of the most contentious issues of his tenure, Sirika defended the stalled national carrier project, Nigeria Air, attributing its failure largely to resistance from domestic airline operators. According to him, airlines operating under the umbrella of the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) played a decisive role in frustrating the initiative. He specifically named Air Peace, Azman Air, and United Nigeria Airlines as key actors that opposed the structure of the proposed airline.
In a televised interview on Channels Television, Sirika maintained that the Nigeria Air project followed due process and was approved by relevant government bodies, including the Federal Executive Council (FEC) and the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC). He argued that the arrangement was transparent and aligned with global best practices for establishing a national carrier.
He further explained that opposition from local airlines stemmed from concerns over Nigeria’s minority stake in the venture, particularly the partnership with Ethiopian Airlines. Sirika said the partnership was necessary because no Nigerian airline had the financial or operational capacity to compete with established international carriers. However, legal challenges initiated by domestic operators ultimately stalled the project and led to its collapse.
On the issue of funding, Sirika rejected widespread claims that approximately ₦100 billion was spent on the Nigeria Air project. He clarified that the total budget approved was ₦5 billion, with only ₦3 billion actually released. This, he suggested, reflected a cautious and measured approach rather than the large-scale expenditure alleged by critics.
Despite his explanations, Sirika remains under legal pressure. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is currently prosecuting him over allegations of abuse of office and the awarding of contracts worth billions of naira to family members during his time in office. The case has added a layer of complexity to his political ambitions, raising questions about accountability and public trust as he seeks elected office.
Even so, Sirika’s Senate bid indicates his determination to remain a key figure in Nigerian politics. With the 2027 elections still some distance away, his declaration sets the stage for what is likely to be a closely watched race in Katsina North, shaped by both his past record and the outcome of ongoing legal proceedings.
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