Evangelist Ogunkeyede Ajibola, managing director of Ufitfly Travel Agency, has urged the Nigerian government to consider involving private individuals in the management of its airports for improved efficiency.
According to him, this approach, already adopted by developed nations like the UK, can significantly enhance the aviation sector.
Speaking during a recent interview on the sidelines of the recently concluded global convention of Prophet Sam Olu-Alo’s Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Adamimogo Grace of Mercy Prayer Mountain Worldwide, Ajibola also advocated for the revival of Nigeria’s national airline, Air Nigeria.
“That is what is happening in most developed countries of the world, even in the UK. We have a Nigerian who owns an airport and such can also happen here. So privatisation has been helpful to most countries that are into it.
“It will be good for the system if private bodies and entities are given the right of managing our airport. There will be massive change, good maintenance of facilities and transformation in the aviation sector if such is introduced.”
He believes a public-private partnership model could breathe new life into the airline and reclaim its position as a leading force in African aviation.
“Even though there were challenges in the past,” Ajibola stated, “we can learn from them and start anew. I am confident that under President Tinubu’s leadership, Air Nigeria can rise again to become the giant of Africa it once was.”
Ajibola further praised Prophet Sam Olu-Alo of Christ Apostolic Church for his philanthropic efforts, particularly his support of young entrepreneurs. He highlighted the Prophet’s record of sponsoring over 500 individuals to Jordan, including Ajibola himself.
Additionally, Ajibola stressed the importance of strengthening diplomatic relations between Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates (Dubai). He believes that closer ties can benefit both nations economically and facilitate business opportunities for Nigerians in Dubai. He urged the Minister of Aviation, Mr Festus Keyamo, to prioritise this matter with the UAE government.
“I want to advise the Minister of Aviation, Mr Festus Keyamo, to do everything necessary to address the issue. Because of the bilateral relations between the two countries. If it is strengthened, it will help boost our nation’s economy.
“This is because Nigerians will have unhindered access to Dubai to do business and to exchange a kind of international relations and this will have great effects on our economy. So, I am appealing to the minister to impress upon President Bola Tinubu-led federal government to expedite action on their discussion with the government of Dubai to resolve the matter and ensure that Dubai is always open to Nigerians to enter for business transactions and vice versa.”
Evangelist Jesugbemi GIG, another religious figure, further noted Prophet Olu-Alo’s global impact through miracles and spiritual work. He shared an example of a recent revival in the Ivory Coast where thousands were reportedly touched by the Prophet’s ministry.
