The Minister of State for Aviation, Hadi Sirika has revealed that the Federal Government has approved that the Aviation Security personnel should bear
The Minister of State for Aviation, Hadi Sirika has revealed that the Federal Government has approved that the Aviation Security personnel should bear arms to enhance security of passengers and installations at the airports. The minister said his ministry would partner with the Ministry of Interior and other stakeholders in the training of the affected Aviation Security personnel in arms’ handling. He added that the Minister of Interior is helping out in that regard as directed by President, to partner with them and other stakeholders to ensure that all airports are secure.
The minister also disclosed that the council approved N1.1 billion for the completion of the Kaduna International Airport Terminal building. He said the contract for the rehabilitation of the building was initially awarded in 2011 at the cost of about N500 million and commenced in 2012. He said the contractor noticed some structural damages to the building which necessitated the variation of the contract sum to the N1.1 billion.
“The cost of variation is in excess of 15 per cent. It had to go to former President Goodluck Jonathan for approval anticipation, that was approved and they went to BPP. So we brought it to council to ratify and of course taking into cognizance the exchange rate and inflation that has increased the cost of completion of the terminal building. Council has approved the completion of that terminal building and it will be completed in six months,’’ he revealed.
On how to manage the closure of Abuja airport and construction of Kaduna airport terminal building, Sirika stated the rehabilitation work would not hinder flight operations.
