EFCC Alleges Sirika Used Ethiopian Airlines Aircraft to Stage Nigeria Air Launch, Divert Funds

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has told a court that former Minister of Aviation, Hadi Abubakar Sirika allegedly used an aircraft belonging to Ethiopian Airlines to stage the controversial unveiling of the Nigeria Air project, in what prosecutors describe as part of a wider alleged N20 billion fraud scheme.

According to testimony presented before the court by EFCC investigator Christopher Odofin, the aircraft publicly displayed during the Nigeria Air launch was owned by Ethiopian Airlines and was only temporarily brought into Nigeria under a short-term arrangement lasting about three days.

The EFCC alleged that the aircraft was presented as part of the national carrier project for publicity purposes, while arrangements were made to project the image of an operational airline.

The commission further told the court that the arrangement was allegedly structured to ensure the aircraft remained in Nigeria until May 29, 2023—the day former President Muhammadu Buhari left office and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was inaugurated.

Mr Odofin also alleged that Ethiopian Airlines crew members operated the aircraft into Nigeria, while local models were engaged to appear in branded Nigeria Air promotional materials.

The former minister is currently standing trial alongside his daughter, Fatima Hadi Sirika; his son-in-law, Hamma Jalal Sule; and Al Buraq Global Investment Limited on six counts bordering on abuse of office and alleged diversion of public funds running into billions of naira.

The EFCC further told the court that the Nigeria Air project contract, initially valued at N299 million and awarded to Tianaero Nigeria Limited in April 2022, was later increased to over N599 million following directives allegedly linked to Sirika.

The investigator also informed the court that analysis of communications involving a former permanent secretary in the ministry allegedly revealed instructions connected to the contract award process while Sirika was abroad.

The case, which remains ongoing, is part of broader investigations by the anti-graft agency into the controversial Nigeria Air initiative, which prosecutors claim was used as a vehicle for alleged misappropriation of public funds and abuse of office.

The defendants, however, are presumed innocent until proven guilty as the court continues hearing evidence in the matter.