Atedo Peterside, the President and founder of ANAP Foundation has stated that with the closure of the airspace of the Niger Republic, flights from Nigeria-bound aircraft will become very expensive adding to the already hardship plaguing the country.
“Closure of Niger Republic airspace will increase the cost of flights from Nigeria to Europe.
If Burkina Faso and/or Mali join Niger in declining overflight rights for Nigerian-bounded aircraft, then inbound and outbound flights from Nigeria to Europe will become very expensive.”
Flights from flights to Europe will detour through a longer route to Nigeria and view verse which will mean higher fares.
On Sunday, following the expiration of the seven-day ultimatum given by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) for the restoration of democratically elected President Muhammed Bazoum who was ousted by the Presidential guards led by General Abdourahamane Tchiani, the Niger Republic closed off its airspace.
Amadou Abdramane, a spokesman for the now-ruling National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland (CNSP), said in a statement read out on national television, that there had been a pre-deployment of forces in two Central African countries in preparation for intervention, but did not give details.
“In the face of the threat of intervention, which is becoming clearer through the preparation of neighbouring countries, Niger’s airspace is closed from this day on Sunday… for all aircraft until further notice.
“Niger’s armed forces and all our defence and security forces, backed by the unfailing support of our people, are ready to defend the integrity of our territory,” the statement said.
