Presidency explains new aviation policy, says no to ‘kabu kabu’ private jet

The Presidency has, again, reacted to the statement issued by the spokesman of the Action Congress of Nigeria, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, criticising the new aviation policy, saying the party displayed sheer mischief and misrepresentation.
According to presidential spokesman, Dr. Reuben Abati, aviation authorities are only trying to ensure that things were done properly in line with international best practice as it concerns the aviation sector.
Abati explained that those who own private jets are expected to limit such to private use and not turning it into ‘kabu kabu’ of a sort.
He said the new policy does not bar private jet owners from carrying people.
The presidential adviser explained further: “I believe that in this matter, the Ministry of Aviation and the relevant agencies will issue a statement offering necessary clarification.
“But, the truth however is that we are faced once again with the ACN engaging in its usual game of mischief. The policy that the ACN appears to be referring to deals essentially with the fact that in the aviation sector, the authorities are insisting on international best practice.
“One, that if you own a private jet, it must strictly be a private jet. You cannot use it for ‘kabu kabu’ and the frequency of the usage of course will determine whether you are using it as ‘kabu kabu’ or not. If it is a private jet, it is a private jet.
“The second point to note is that the government has not said that you cannot carry anybody you like in your aircraft. That is not what the policy says. This is clearly a case of misrepresentation.
“What the policy says is that whoever you carry in your private jet, you must submit a manifest, you must declare a manifest. It is important to note that you cannot say because it is your private jet, you will carry people in it and you will not declare a manifest. It is standard international practice that for air travel, a manifest must be made available.
“The third point has to do with insurance. Why all of this is important is that when you engage in air travel and you give people a ride or you are using it for private purposes, there must also be insurance.
“The aircraft itself must be insured and there must also be insurance for the people who are travelling. You cannot violate all these rules and say because it is a private jet. Rules are rules.”