The Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development has refuted a report published by a national daily, which claimed that the government lost N120 billion due to illegal private jet charters.

The report alleged that a ministerial task force had identified several companies and organizations involved in unauthorized charter operations.

The entities reportedly mentioned included Arik Air Limited, BUA International Limited, Dominion Air Limited, Executive Jets Services, Max Air Limited, Rivers State Government, Julius Berger Nigeria Limited, and Nestoil PLC.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the ministry clarified that the task force?s report was only submitted to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development on the evening of March 4, 2025, and has yet to be reviewed.

The ministry also stated that the task force had confirmed that the names mentioned in the media report were not listed in their report.

Furthermore, the ministry emphasized that the task force?s recommendations focused on strengthening regulatory oversight, enhancing security measures, improving compliance with aviation laws, and ensuring transparency in private charter operations.

Condemning the publication, the ministry urged the national daily to retract the story and called on journalists to verify their information before publication.

It also reassured the public and the companies mentioned in the report to disregard the claims, emphasising its commitment to maintaining strict aviation regulations and ensuring a fair and transparent sector. (The Guardian)

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