Former Nigerian Aviation Minister Hadi Sirika Arrested on Charges of Fraud and Money Laundering

Hadi Sirika, Nigeria’s former Aviation Minister, is set to be arraigned in an Abuja court next week following his recent arrest by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Sirika faces allegations of fraud and money laundering involving over NGN 8 billion naira (approximately USD 6.4 million). His arrest, which occurred on April 23, ties into broader accusations relating to questionable contracts and the misappropriation of funds during his tenure.

Local reports indicate that the EFCC has focused its investigation on several contracts awarded to Engirios Nigeria Limited, a company reportedly owned by Sirika’s brother, Abubakar Sirika, who is also a deputy director at the Federal Ministry of Water Resources. Notable contracts under scrutiny include the construction of a terminal building at Katsina Airport and a fire-truck maintenance center, along with the procurement of aviation-specific equipment and training simulators, totaling billions of naira.

The EFCC’s inquiry extends to Sirika’s role in the controversial Nigeria Air project—a proposed joint venture between the Nigerian government and a consortium led by Ethiopian Airlines, which was halted amid legal challenges and accusations of improper tender processes.

Sirika’s arrest is part of a broader crackdown on corruption in Nigeria, aiming to address longstanding issues of graft and mismanagement within public offices. His upcoming arraignment and the ongoing investigations reflect the government’s intensified efforts to combat financial crimes and restore integrity to Nigerian public service.