The Minister of Aviation, Hadi
Sirika, has said that four airports are ready for inspection and possible
reopening if they meet the required COVID-19 protocols.
Sirika, at the Daily Briefing of
the Presidential Taskforce on COVID-19, on Thursday in Abuja, said the airports
at Calabar, Sokoto, Katsina and Kebbi were all ready for inspection on Friday,
July 17, 2020.
The minister also stated that on
July 20, other airports would be accessed as the need arises and also, based on
their preparedness.
Speaking on the pressure to open
airports, the aviation minister said that the ministry of aviation, as the
regulatory body, reserves the right to withdraw or reopen the operations at any
airport, depending on the level of required protocols met.
Recall that airports at Kano,
Port Harcourt, Owerri, Maiduguri, Lagos and Abuja had been reopened for flight
operations.
He, however, decried the level of
violation of the COVID-19 protocols at the airports by some people.
According to him, the ministry is
presently investigating about three cases at the Port Harcourt, Kano and Abuja
airports and will penalise anyone found wanting.
Also, the PTF Chairman, Boss
Mustapha frowned at the violation of COVID-19 protocols at the airports by some
VIPs and warned against such actions.
The chairman said: “You will all
recall that the aviation sector reopened for domestic operations on July 8,
2020.
“Dry runs were carried out, and
guidelines meant to protect all travellers were issued.
“You also recall that we
identified and pleaded even before now, with certain classes of persons,
particularly VIPs, to desist from flouting such guidelines.
“Unfortunately, we have received
reports about violations by some dignitaries who failed to follow the protocols
at our airports.
“We believe leaders must lead by
example. In truth, as leaders and followers, we must change our behaviour if we
must overcome the pandemic.
“This virus does not discriminate
against status, age, tribe, creed or colour. All we require is diligent
compliance and vigilance.”
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