Nick Fadugba Resigns from AFRAA

NICK Fadugba, the new secretary general of the African Airlines Association (AFRAA), has unexpectedly quit his position. Barely eight months into this role, Fadugba only took up the post in November last year.

In his resignation letter, dated 10 June, Fadugba wrote: “Since 18 February, 2010, it has been an honour and a privilege for me to serve as secretary general of AFRAA, an intense period spent single-mindedly addressing the many challenges facing African airlines today.

“After careful deliberation, I have now come to the conclusion that I can better serve the African Aviation industry and African airlines in my previous capacity as founder and chief executive officer of African Aviation Services (AAS) rather than as secretary general of AFRAA.”

The reason for Fadugba’s resignation is unknown, but frustration at the lack of change towards professionalism may be part of it.

At the fifth annual Routes Africa in Swaziland forum he gave a strong address urging African governments to co-operate over liberalisation. “There is inadequate co-operation between civil aviation authorities, airports, tourism authorities and governments. Without cooperation, progress will not happen.

“I urge African airlines to come together and consolidate, so they can compete effectively. Without a stable and strong air transport system it will be difficult to promote sustainable economic growth and development in Africa.”

He added: “Network opportunities in Africa remain untapped, and non-Africans are making money here. In parts of Africa there is an unwillingness to implement the Yamoussoukro Agreement, and if African countries and civil aviation authorities will not implement a legally binding instrument of the African Union, then we only have ourselves to blame.”