The Oronsaye Report, which suggested the merging of some federal government agencies and parastatals, was put on hold by President Bola Tinubu for reasons disclosed by Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development.
The report had suggested merging the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency, NAMA, with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA.
Speaking on Sunday in Abuja at the 25th anniversary of NCAA, Keyamo said: “From the story of the former minister, I am sure you can see that the NCAA is a child of destiny. Despite turbulent times and several attempts to undermine it, the NCAA has survived for 25 years.
“I am sure you know that any child born 25 years ago would, undoubtedly, have reached the age of maturity—by then, they would have graduated, completed national service, and begun working. So, 25 years marks the age of maturity.
“But let me tell you my own little story. I don’t like these prepared speeches. Few people know that the Oronsaye Report recommended merging the NCAA with NAMA—another attempt to undermine the NCAA.
“That report was passed down from Jonathan’s government to Buhari’s government and then to the present administration. Throughout Buhari’s tenure, we were unable to consider it.
“Coincidentally, I was the only minister who remained in office until this government. So, I was part of the previous administration, and though the report came up a few times in council, we could not deliberate on it.
“But guess what? It was considered under this government. The report was brought up that day, and I was ready with my battle axe. The president carefully reviewed every item in the Oronsaye Report and asked the council to vote. Then he reached the recommendation to merge the NCAA and NAMA.
“I raised my hand and said, ‘No.’ I spoke for about five minutes. Because we have a president who listens to good counsel and sound arguments, after I finished speaking, he said, ‘Item dropped.’ NCAA and NAMA will not be merged.”
Written By Yemi Balogun