The aviation and travel industry stakeholder disclosed that following the outbreak of the pandemic from China and spread to other parts of the world including Nigeria, airlines had seen a 20 per cent drop in passenger traffic as a result of the situation.
The National Association of Nigerian Travel Agents has
called for the sensitisation of air travellers and tourists coming into Nigeria
as a way of curbing the spread of Coronavirus.
The aviation and travel industry stakeholder disclosed that
following the outbreak of the pandemic from China and spread to other parts of
the world including Nigeria, airlines had seen a 20 per cent drop in passenger
traffic as a result of the situation.
Speaking at a briefing with journalists in Lagos ahead of
the organisation’s annual general meeting in Kano, NANTA President, Mr Bankole
Bernard, said that as major players in the aviation and travel sector of the
country, they would work with relevant government agencies to spread awareness
of the virus and ensure persons coming into Nigeria from the ports of entry
adhere to preventive measures adopted.
He said, “Indeed, there has been a decline in traffic but we
see Nigerians changing their movement. If Nigeria operates the open skies
approach, some of the international carriers will apply to fly two or three
aircrafts into Nigeria because Nigeria is doing all it can to curtail the
spread of the virus.
“We are still selling tickets, although not as much as we
used to. Coronavirus did not affect local flights.
“NANTA supports the very systematic approach of the health
organisations and the aviation agencies at our airports. We also commend the
airlines for standing strong at a period like this despite operational
challenges initiated to address and halt the spread.
“As professionals, we have advised our members to consider
the safety and health of any intending passengers in all travel solutions they
proffer and share information to all intending passengers in order to guide
them where necessary.
“We are looking to
set up a special call line to help those who want to reach out to NANTA on the
issue, as it affects their travel to high-risk countries.
“Our AGM in Kano promises to live up to our established
protocols in terms of quality attendance and discussions on notable industry
issues including on this pandemic.”
On Wednesday, Nigeria announced five new cases of
Coronavirus, bringing to eight the total number of cases in the country.
To further curb the spread of the pandemic, travellers from
13 countries including the United States, China, Italy and others were banned
from entering Nigeria.
A number of state governments have also announced the immediate
closure of schools and banned public gatherings of more than 50 persons to
arrest the situation.
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