Dana Air has further reinforced its management team by appointing Mr. Obi Mbanuzuo as Accountable Manager. In his new role as the Accountable Manager, Mr. Mbanuzuo has overall corporate authority of ensuring that all operations and maintenance activities are carried out in line with globally accepted standards as set by the civil aviation authority.

Announcing the appointment in Lagos, the Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Jacky Hathiramani said Obi has over the years demonstrated professionalism in the discharge of his duties and the airline is confident that he will bring his wealth of experience to bear.

“Dana Air is a forward looking organization and our corporate mission is to consistently deliver the best quality services throughout our operations by appointing qualified personnel to occupy sensitive positions as well as continuously investing in human capital development to boost the airline’s strength in becoming a leading airline”, said Jacky Hathiramani.

He further noted that Obi Mbanuzuo is an aviation expert with over twenty years experience covering Aircraft Lease; Revenue Management & Pricing; Fleet & Network Planning as well as Business Development and key areas of maintenance planning.

Obi Mbanuzuo who obtained his Masters in Aeronautical Engineering at the National Aviation University in Kiev Ukraine as well as a Post Graduate Diploma in Business Administration, started his aviation career as a licensed aircraft maintenance engineer. He joined Dana Airlines as the General Manager Commercial in August 2011 and prior to his current appointment, He was the Chief Commercial Officer; a position where he significantly contributed to the commercial and network growth of the airline.

Obi had a working stint with Promotional Logistics Ltd, UK, before moving over to Virgin Atlantic Airways and was subsequently, assigned as a member of the start-up team of Virgin Nigeria.

Dana Air which is reputed for its efficient customer service, world-class in-flight service, on-time departures and arrivals, innovative e-airline products and high quality standards currently operates daily flights from the Murtala Mohammed Airport Terminal 2 (MMA2) to Abuja, Port Harcourt, Uyo and Owerri.

Book ahead get pocket friendly fares!

Dana Air begins flights to Owerri on March 24..sets N9,900 as introductory fare

As part of its ongoing domestic route network expansion plans, Dana Air will on Tuesday, 24th March, commence daily flights to Owerri. The addition of Owerri brings the current route network coverage of the airline to five destinations – Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Uyo and Owerri.

Announcing the scheduled commencement of the Owerri route, the Chief Commercial Officer of Dana Air, Mr. Obi Mbanouzuo, said the airline is working with the objective of integrating most major cities in Nigeria into its route network and making air transport accessible by developing new routes and linking same to its existing routes network to better serve the demands of passengers.

“We are constantly reviewing our operations and our decision to commence operations to Owerri is hinged on our desire to offerpassengers in Owerri and its environs access to Dana’s wider route network”, said Mr. Mbanuzuo. Also, the airline has set an introductory online fare of N9,900 to boost leisure and business trips across its route network.

Dana Air currently operates flights from Lagos to Abuja, Port Harcourt and Uyo; will operate daily flights from Murtala Mohammed Airport Terminal 2 (MMA2), Lagos to the Sam Mbakwe Airport, Owerri, as well as onwards flights to Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport, Abuja.

Dana Air which is the only domestic airline to have successfully undergone an operational audit by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and its foreign partners the Flight Safety Group, has also successfully gone through the three phases of the IOSA workshops and is now due for full IOSA audit coming up within the year.

Dana Air begins flights to Owerri on March 24..sets N9,900 as introductory fare

As part of its ongoing domestic route network expansion plans, Dana Air will on Tuesday, 24th March, commence daily flights to Owerri. The addition of Owerri brings the current route network coverage of the airline to five destinations – Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Uyo and Owerri.

Announcing the scheduled commencement of the Owerri route, the Chief Commercial Officer of Dana Air, Mr. Obi Mbanouzuo, said the airline is working with the objective of integrating most major cities in Nigeria into its route network and making air transport accessible by developing new routes and linking same to its existing routes network to better serve the demands of passengers.

“We are constantly reviewing our operations and our decision to commence operations to Owerri is hinged on our desire to offerpassengers in Owerri and its environs access to Dana’s wider route network”, said Mr. Mbanuzuo. Also, the airline has set an introductory online fare of N9,900 to boost leisure and business trips across its route network.

Dana Air currently operates flights from Lagos to Abuja, Port Harcourt and Uyo; will operate daily flights from Murtala Mohammed Airport Terminal 2 (MMA2), Lagos to the Sam Mbakwe Airport, Owerri, as well as onwards flights to Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport, Abuja.

Dana Air which is the only domestic airline to have successfully undergone an operational audit by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and its foreign partners the Flight Safety Group, has also successfully gone through the three phases of the IOSA workshops and is now due for full IOSA audit coming up within the year.

Now you can fly Dana Air to Owerri with pocket friendly fares starting from N9,900 and N27,000 for business class.

Dana Air still leading in the drive to enlighten Nigerian students about the Aviation industry and encouraging them to believe and build a career in the industry. Pix: Captain Frank Chuks addressing the students

APC AND DERE LIES. FIRST DEY LIED ABT BUHARI VISITING CHIBOK. THEY ALSO LIED ABT BUHARI'S CERTIFICATE. THEY LIED ABT HIS HEALTH AND HIS DEPUTY ALSO USED FAKE PICTURE OF THE CROWD THAT CAME FOR RAIHAD BONKE"S CROWD AS THE CROWD THAT CAME TO WELCOME BUHARI. THEY LIED ABT THE INTERVIEW AND DATES OF THE INTERVIEW WITH BLAIR. THEY FEEL DAT DERE PROPAGANDA WD HELP DEM. MARCH 28 GEJ LANDSLIDE VICTORY WE CNT VOTE A PARTY FULL OF LIES AND DECEIT

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SATURDAY RINGTRUE

21 Feb 2015
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SATURDAY RINGTRUE with Yemi Adebowale

Letter to Mohammadu Buhari

Dear sir, I hope this letter meets you in decent health. May Allah continue to give you astuteness and long life so that you will witness the Nigeria of your dream. Sir, I have been following your Presidential campaign across the country for a couple of weeks now. I am sorry to say that you have created a “must win” impression. From your speeches, actions and inactions, the message you have been sending to your supporters is that once you don’t win, then the Presidential election must have been rigged; that the Presidential election would only be deemed free and fair if you win.

This is a very dangerous trend. Sir, you know quite alright that majority of your supporters in your stronghold of North-west and parts of North-east are mainly peasants; most of them illiterates and semi-literates. These are people that can be easily swayed into violence. Way back, you were quoted to have said at a campaign rally in Niger that your supporters should defend their votes and anybody that tries to stop them should be killed. You simply told them to go on a rampage if you don’t win. Of course, your famous threat that the dog and the baboon would be soaked in blood if election were rigged is still fresh in our memories. My dear General, when some of your party members paid you a courtesy call in Kaduna on May 16, 2012, you declared: “God willing, by 2015, something will happen. They either conduct a free and fair election or they go a very disgraceful way. If what happened in 2011 should again happen in 2015, by the grace of God, the dog and the baboon would all be soaked in blood.” Haba, my General, this should not be coming from a true patriot.

You must remember that the Lemu panel on the 2011 post-election violence clearly stated that provocative utterances by many individuals and the widespread charge by prominent politicians (including you) to the electorate to guard their votes appeared to have been misconstrued by many voters to include recourse to violence, which they did. You are doing precisely the same thing again. You must stop telling them to defend their votes. I am surprised that your children and other family members were not part of the misguided people who came out in 2011 to “defend their votes.” So, it is other people’s children that should come out to defend their votes while you keep yours in the comfort of your home?

My dear General, you have failed to let your fanatical supporters know that politics is a game and you may win or lose; that voting for you massively in the North-west and parts of North-east would not automatically translate to victory for you in the Presidential election. You have deliberately refused to face the reality that just as it was in 2011, voters in South-east and South-south would most likely vote massively for Goodluck Jonathan again; that the middle Belt states, apart from Niger and Kwara, would most likely vote massively for Jonathan again; that Taraba and Adamawa states remain PDP/Jonathan strongholds. You have created the impression that your allies in the South-west would deliver the entire region to you. You failed to let them know that it would be practically impossible for you to make an impression in Ekiti and Ondo states, two strongholds of the PDP; that Lagos and Oyo states could go either way.

The minds of your fanatical supporters in the core north are glued with the impression that you must win. Sir, this your “I must win attitude” could set the North-west and parts of the North-east on fire again if you lose. Post-election violence is not necessarily because of electoral unfairness. Unfortunately, this is the impression you have been giving to your supporters. Unrealistic expectations by candidates and their followers often lead to post-election violence. Pre-election threats like the ones coming from you of recent, could also lead to post-election violence. As a patriot, you must start taking steps to reverse this impending violence. You must let your supporters realize that Allah gives power to whoever he wishes; that your reservations about the outcome of the March 28 election would be taken to the appropriate tribunal. You and your party chieftains must stop inciting your fanatical supporters to “defend their votes.” If you truly love this great country, you must ensure that there is no repeat of the 2011 post-election violence. Only you, I repeat, only you can stop this from happening. Not even the blood of a single Nigerian should be sacrificed for your ambition. Violence has no place in a democracy. You must put aside the toga of a man desperate to become the President of this country. You don’t have to be President to contribute to the development of this country. May the will of Allah be done on March 28.

Dana air partners NGO on world cancer day 2015

As part of activities to commemorate the World Cancer Day 2015, with the global theme: ‘Not Beyond Us’, Dana Air in partnership with Project PINK BLUE, organised Benefit Event and Walk, Race & Cycling against Cancer with the aim to create awareness on the importance of early detection of cancer and healthy lifestyle.

Through the initiative, over 100 people got free screenings from the team of experts assembled by Project PINK BLUE.

Dana Air has since inception been responsive to worthy causes that touch on the health status of the citizenry and the gesture to support activities marking the World cancer Day ties into the company’s overall sponsorship.

Speaking in Abuja during the free screening exercise, the airline’s Head, Corporate Communications, Mr Samuel Ogbogoro, expressed happiness that Dana Air is once again leading in the drive to raise public awareness for charitable causes that truly affect the lives of people. This participation is anchored on the airline’s firm belief in investing in the populace.

Mr Ogbogoro said: “Dana Air identifies with all global and local initiatives to improve the health conditions of the people. One of our major values is care’; and we take that to heart, which is why we will continue to pay serious attention to issues that concern humanity be it young or old”.

Also speaking on the initiative, the Executive Director of Project PINK BLUE, Runcie Chidebe expressed appreciation to Dana Air for the support and commitment to the success of the project. According to him, the airline has shown it is really a socially responsible airline.

“I am particularly happy about Dana Air’s support. Despite the short notice for them to participate, they responded favourably and actively participated in the success of our activities to mark this year’s edition of the World Cancer Day. The airline has shown genuine altruism and this is commendable.”

Project PINK BLUE is a cancer non-profit organisation with focus on cancer awareness, provision of free cancer screenings, and support to people battling with cancer.

The NGO recently won the Nelson Mandela-Graca Machel Innovation Award, CIVICUS, Johannesburg, South Africa; as well as Global Shapers Community Abuja I AM BOLD Award, Shape Africa 2014 and Semi-Finalist in the Big C Competition by LiveSTRONG Foundation, Austin, USA.

Dana Air to commence daily flight operations to Owerri

on February 16, 2015 / in Business 12:23 am / Comments


Dana Airline has indicated its readiness to begin its daily flight operations to Owerri airport in a few weeks time. Disclosing this development to newsmen, Chief Commercial Officer of the airline, Obi Mbanuzuo said that such move was part of the airline’s expansion plan to convey passengers to their various destination across the country.

*Dana

According to Mr. Mbanuzuo “Dana Air is prepared to commence daily flight operations to Owerri in the coming weeks as part of its expansion drive to make its unique services readily available to all” The Airline’s Chief Commercial Officer further pointed out that in the spirit of valentine season, the airline has introduced a promotional fare in its business class which was pegged at N27,000.

While unveiling the valentine promotional fares, Mr. Mbanuzuo stressed that with such fares in place, it would afford most of the airline’s guest to travel at ease and comfort with a lot of leisure during their trips. “We want to encourage our guests to travel for leisure and business in style and comfort this season and this initiative is part of our commitment to continually offer pocket friendly fares across our sales channels” he said.

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY FROM DANA AIR

hmmm.....

VALENTINE: DANA OFFERS BUSINESS SEATS AT N27,000

Lagos, February 6, 2015 – In the spirit of the valentine season, Dana Air has unveiled a special promotional ticket package for guests to enjoy premiumcomfort in business class with online fares starting at N27,000.00 when booked on www.flydanaair.com or through the mobile app.

Chief Commercial Officer of the airline, Obi Mbanuzuo, who unveiled the valentine promotional fares said, “We want to encourage our guests to travel for leisure and business in style and comfort this season and this initiative is part of our commitment to continually offer pocket friendly fares across our sales channels.”

Mr. Mbanuzuo also noted that guests stand a chance to win complimentary flight tickets by participating in the ongoing promotional social media activities on facebook and twitter pages of the airline.

He also used the opportunity to reiterate the preparedness of Dana Air to commence daily flight operations to Owerri in the coming weeks as part of its expansion drive to make its unique services readily available to all.

Dana Air is one of Nigeria’s leading airlines, operating daily flights to Abuja, Lagos, Port Harcourt and Uyo. The airline is reputed for its efficient customer services, world-class in-flight services, on-time departures and arrivals, innovative e-airline products and high quality standards.

Dana Air business class tickets now 27,000 one-way

PICTURES OF PINK BLUE'S SUPPORT FOR WORLD CANCER DAY EVENT 2015. PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY DANA AIR, FIDELITY BANK, SHERATON HOTEL, MINISTRY OF HEALTH, AIT, ETC

i think the first thing u should check is if he has an infection. if he doesnt then check is stress level work rate and all that. cos all of these also contribute to inability to last longer in bed. from all the comments and replies you have given you shld both seek medical advice cos he may have damaged his vas deference mayb when he had an infant surgery or otherwise. there are so many issues that can bring about this and would suggest you both look inwards abd sort the issue as mature pple. all the best!

A FREQUENT guest of Dana Air, Chief Yimama Aboh has commended the airline for its strict security measures that guarantee the security of bags and luggage on board flights. The respected guest gave the commendation following the collection of items he left behind on one of the flights.

According to Aboh who was pleasantly surprised at recovering his items that included money, and other personal effects intact; the high level of integrity demonstrated by the airlines’ staff is worth emulating as it clearly shows that Nigerians are still honest and can be trusted.

His word: “It is rather amazing that my bag has been found intact which implies that the staff of the airline are up to their responsibilities and I am encouraged by the level of integrity displayed by this development which has further reinforced my confidence in the airline.”

Also speaking on the airline’s strict adherence to operating standards, the Head, Corporate Communications, Mr. Samuel Ogbogoro noted that Dana Air is committed to surpassing guests’ expectations and it is not a surprise as the staff members are well motivated to be alive to their responsibilities.

He noted further that items ranging from phones, tablets, cash as well as other personal effects that are left behind by guests are always assembled and returned to their legitimate owners.

Dana Air currently operates flights from Lagos to Abuja, Port Harcourt and Uyo and will shortly introduce additional domestic and regional routes.

NIDF to pay N25m Coupons to note holders
 
Lagos, 26th January 2015 – The Nigerian International Debt Fund (NIDF) – an NSE listed mutual fund - plans to pay a minimum of N40.00 per note holder as final coupon to investors for the year ending December 31, 2014. A total of N25,190,667.56 will be distributed amongst note holders on the register of the fund as at the closure date of February 5, 2015.
 
According to Ola Belgore, Managing Director of Afrinvest Asset Management Limited - the Fund Manager – this is the 34th coupon in the life of the Fund since its launch in 1997, and the final distribution is in line with the structure of the NIDF, as the Fund is designed to pay distributions twice a year.
 
In his words, “NIDF paid an interim coupon of N60.71 per note in August 2014 and, with an estimated N40.00 per note to be paid on February 11, 2015, the total payment for the 2014 Financial Year stands at N100.71.”
 
“The Fund closed the year at a price of N1, 978.31 per note achieving a N68.51 capital gain over the opening price for 2014. At the trading price of N1987.26 on Wednesday, January 21, 2015 the coupon yield was 5.1%”, Belgore added.
 
The Nigeria International Debt Fund invests in the domestic and international debt instruments of the Federal Government of Nigeria as well as those of the 36 States.
 
NIDF offers investors safety, capital preservation, steady returns, diversification and value, and has a consistent dividend history making it quite attractive for both individual and institutional investors such as Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs), insurance companies, asset managers and gratuity funds.
 
Only recently, the NIDF was rated “A-” by Global Credit Rating Company (GCR). This rating by one of the leading global rating agencies is among the best for mutual funds in the market today.  
 
Afrinvest Asset Management Limited is a subsidiary of Afrinvest West Africa Limited, a wealth advisory firm involved in investment banking, securities trading, asset management and investment research with a focus on West Africa.

THE deputy chief executive officer (CEO), Accountable Manager, of Dana Air, Mr. Alberto Mansilla has reviewed the activities of his airline for the past one year and gave his company a thumb up for a job well done· In an interview with the Guardian recently, he promised to build on the successes recorded last year to champion a better 2015 for the airline.

He spoke in Lagos where he recounted some of the airline’s achievement last year and promised to improve on the company’s services to its customers in 2015. His words: “We renewed our AOC on 26th of November, after passing thorough an exhaustive and successful audit of our entire operations by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority. As you may be aware, the AOC is valid for a period of two years and auditors from the regulatory agency scrutinized our entire operations by reviewing our manuals, safety procedures, maintenance culture as well as the status of our equipments. At the end, the agency was satisfied with the state of our operations as we demonstrated full compliance in accordance with the high level of the standard of the aviation sector. The success came as a result of the professionalism of our entire workforce. It is also imperative to note that at Dana Air, we are always striving for excellence as we consistently recruit well qualified personnel to boost our team in the implementation of key strategies. The AOC renewal process was very smooth and without stress due to the dedication and great cooperation of the entire team of our staff members”.

On IOSA updates he replied: “Dana Air entered in 2013 for the IOSA Implementation Initiative, which consists of programs organized by IATA where the entire company is deeply monitored in and guided through workshops to ensure the success of the IOSA audit. We are working at submitting fully to the IOSA program and we are certain of the airline to be on the registry by the 2015 deadline. We just successfully completed the 3rd IOSA workshop and are currently doing a BASELINE REVIEW aimed at ensuring our readiness for the IOSA audit scheduled for August/September 2015”.

Concering his appointment as the new Accountable Manager he has this to say:

“I joined Dana Air on 7 of June 2012 as Head of Maintenance department and was duly accepted as a post holder by the NCAA and a year after; I assumed the role of Director of Maintenance department. 2 years upon my arrival to Dana Air, I was nominated as the Accountable Manager of Dana Airlines LTD, It is a position which I am infinitely grateful to the top management of the airline for the confidence put in me to be responsible for the entire operations of the Airline. I have over 38 years in the aviation industry, first as an aircraft engineer, instructor, flight engineer on Boeing 747, accident preventer as well as Director of Maintenance. Today I find myself celebrating the first 6 months as the Accountable Manager of Dana Air and

also take this opportunity to thank the top management, for believing in my work and their support”.

On his expansion plan 2015 particularly the Aircraft acquisition he said: “We are working with representatives of Boeing, and we are currently searching the best option for Dana. Our plan to totally refleet is on and hopefully, the first Dana owned and Nigerian registered Boeing 737 will arrive after IOSA registry September 2015. The Boeing McDonnell aircraft in our fleet are performing optimally and are undergoing deep and complete checks in EAS industries in France and in Summit Aviation in UK for the engines. Both facilities are reputable and approved by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority.

For his plans for domestic and regional expansion, Mansilla revealed thus: “In domestic we would be opening Owerri within two months even as we study the possibility of Kano and Calabar as well. On our plans for Regional flight operations, we already have approval to operate Accra. We are also reviewing market report for Duala and Abidjan.

n the spirit of the season, Dana Air invited its Brand Ambassador Bright Akpocha aka Baket mouth to come thrill its Guests onboard its flights....see pictures

AFRINVEST’S NIDF GETS "A" RATING


Lagos, 22nd December 2014 – The Nigeria International Debt Fund (“NIDF”), an NSE listed mutual fund that invests in fixed income securities of Federal and State Governments, has been rated “A-” by Global Credit Rating Company (GCR). This rating by one of the leading global rating agencies is among the best for mutual funds in the market today.

In rating the NIDF, cognizance was taken of the management quality of the Asset Manager, Afrinvest Asset Management Limited, as well as the consistency of the team of individuals managing the fund, says a report prepared by GCR.

According to the report, “The fund’s 3 year performance track record (in terms of return on investment) to 31 December 2013 is considered satisfactory, averaging 12% annualised, which compared favourably with the minimum return expectation of 10%.”

The report also noted that the accorded rating reflects the credit quality of the fund’s assets, comprising mainly high investment grade rated sovereign and municipal bonds as at FYE13.

Ola Belgore, Managing Director of Afrinvest Asset Management Limited, said that the high rating of the NIDF by GCR is testament to the firm’s professionalism and adherence to global best practices, as well as its commitment to providing value for clients’ investments.

Belgore also reiterated, “NIDF offers investors safety, capital preservation, steady returns, diversification and value, and has a consistent dividend history making it quite attractive for both individual and institutional investors such as Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs), insurance companies, asset managers and gratuity funds.”

The Nigerian International Debt Fund (NIDF) is a privately managed, collective investment scheme, mandated to invest in a collection of domestic (federal or state government issued) fixed interest securities.

Afrinvest Asset Management Limited (AAML) is licensed by the Securities & Exchange Commission as a Fund/Portfolio Manager. It is a subsidiary of Afrinvest (West Africa) Limited, a wealth advisory firm involved in investment banking, securities trading, asset management and investment research with a focus on West Africa.

Dana Renews Operational Licence



By Chinedu Eze

As a confirmation of its improved safety and stability in its operations, the Nigerian civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has renewed the Air Operator Certificate (AOC) of Dana Air Limited, just as the airline hopes to get safety certification from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) in 2015.

The airline said it earned AOC after passing through an exhaustive and successful audit of its entire operations by NCAA.
The Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Accountable Manager of the airline, Alberto Mansilla, said, “As you may be aware, the AOC is valid for a period of two years and auditors from the regulatory agency scrutinised our entire operations by reviewing our manuals, safety procedures, maintenance culture as well as the status of our equipment. At the end, the agency was satisfied with the state of our operations as we demonstrated full compliance in accordance with the high level of the professionalism of our entire work force.”
The airline said it was one of the airlines selected by IATA in Africa to go through safety processes to earn the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA), which is a high safety status earned by IATA member airlines.

Dana said it entered for the IOSA implementation initiative in 2013, which consists of programmes organised by IATA where the company is deeply monitored in and guided through workshops to ensure the success of IOSA audit.
“We are working at submitting fully to the IOSA programme and we are certain that Dana Air will be on the registry by the 2015 deadline. We just successfully completed the 3rd IOSA workshop and are currently doing a baseline review aimed at ensuring our readiness for the IOSA audit scheduled for August/September 2015,”Mansilla said.
He added that the company is working with the representatives of the aircraft manufacturer, Boeing, searching for the best option for aircraft acquisition.

The company, he noted, plans to totally re-fleet, disclosing that hopefully, the first Dana Air owned and Nigerian registered Boeing 737 would arrive after the IOSA registry in September, 2015.
“The Boeing McDonnel aircraft in our fleet are performing optimally and are undergoing deep and complete checks in EAS Industries in France and in Summit Aviation in UK for the engines. Both facilities are reputable and approved by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority,” Mansilla said.

d

obviously the writer is suffering from phobia or hypertension because this is a clear case of turbulence!


Report Out: Nigerian Minister of Aviation Investigates Dana Air following my story
Simon Ateba Dec 11th, 2014 0 Comment
images(19)



By Simon Ateba/Lagos
The Nigerian Minister of Aviation, Osita Chidoka, has concluded an investigation ‎into the Dana Air Flight 357 to Abuja last Friday following an expose by www.simonateba.com.

The publisher of www.simonateba.com, Mr. Simon Ateba, had left Lagos on Friday to attend a bloggers party in Maitama area of Abuja, boarding Dana Air Flight 357 at the Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos.
But only about five minutes after the MD-83 plane took off, the aircraft began to bounce in a terrible and traumatic way.
Here was the story:
http://simonateba.com/2014/12/06/inside-scary-dana-flight-almost-crashed‎/
The Minister opened an investigation and here is the report. A few lies were told to the Minister but it’s a first good step.
Report is as followed. ‎
‎
‎
‎All, I posted the complaint by simon because I want full transparency on issues affecting passengers. Since he posted it online I had no choice but to handle it online to assure passengers and ensure transparency. Please find below a summary report of preliminary investigation by NCAA. I will keep you all posted as we have more information.

SUBJECT:DANA AIRLINES INVESTIGATION REPORTThis Investigation was triggered by a complaint by Mr. Simon Ateba received via the social media and forwarded to the Authority. The Director of Operations and Training ordered immediate investigation to establish what transpired.OPERATIONS INSPECTORS:
1. Lawal AbdulKadiri – CSI
2. Augustine Eboigbe – GOI
3. Ayo Jimoh – GOI
DANA FLIGHT CREW OF FLIGHT 357:
1. Terry Harvey – Captain
2. Kowander George – First Officer
3. Jatto Iyabo – SCCM
4. Adejoh Uferi – CC2
5. Chigbufue Augusta – CC3
6. Amazu Ifeoma – CC4

PEOPLE INTERVIEWED:
1. DANA Operations Management Team members available
2. DANA Capt. Terry Harvey (PIC of Flight 357 of 05/12/2014)

OBSERVATIONS AND FINDINGS:
1. The Flight Number was 357 Lagos to Abuja
2. The Complainant – Mr. Simon Ateba, was on board DANA Flight 357 (Seat 14E) Lagos to Abuja on Friday, 5th December 2014 as per attached Passenger Manifest
3. The flight was schedule to depart in the afternoon at 1530 local time but departed on time at 1529 local time
4. Weather report (METAR & TAF) and Low Level Significant Weather Chart attached indicated Thunder Storm and Cumulonimbus clouds activities along the route.
5. The PIC interviewed confirmed there was cloud activities enroute but he could not confirm if the passengers were briefed during the turbulent period but he confirmed there was briefing when they got out of the weather
6. The PIC confirmed that the cabin temperature on ground during boarding was hot due to outside temperature that was reporting 32 degree Celsius but it normalized after take-off.
7. Head of Ground Operations confirmed that the complainant was called immediately they got the report.

CONCLUSION:
After deep evaluation of the flight documents and interview with the PIC, the following were established:
1. That the cabin was hot on ground during boarding
2. That there was significant weather activities TS and Turbulence along the route all the way to Bida, during the flight.
3. That the reported weather activities were enough to cause bumpy ride for the larger duration of the flight

RECOMMENDATIONS:
Based on the observations, findings and conclusions above, it will be pertinent as a matter of reassuring the passenger of their safety for the Pilot In Command to brief passengers when experiencing turbulence during flight.

Sir, attached are the Passengers Manifest, Voyage Report, Tech Log, Flight Release, Flight Report TAF and Meta.‎

obviously the writer is suffering from phobia or hypertension because this is a clear case of turbulence!


Report Out: Nigerian Minister of Aviation Investigates Dana Air following my story
Simon Ateba Dec 11th, 2014 0 Comment
images(19)



By Simon Ateba/Lagos
The Nigerian Minister of Aviation, Osita Chidoka, has concluded an investigation ‎into the Dana Air Flight 357 to Abuja last Friday following an expose by www.simonateba.com.

The publisher of www.simonateba.com, Mr. Simon Ateba, had left Lagos on Friday to attend a bloggers party in Maitama area of Abuja, boarding Dana Air Flight 357 at the Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos.
But only about five minutes after the MD-83 plane took off, the aircraft began to bounce in a terrible and traumatic way.
Here was the story:
http://simonateba.com/2014/12/06/inside-scary-dana-flight-almost-crashed‎/
The Minister opened an investigation and here is the report. A few lies were told to the Minister but it’s a first good step.
Report is as followed. ‎
‎
‎
‎All, I posted the complaint by simon because I want full transparency on issues affecting passengers. Since he posted it online I had no choice but to handle it online to assure passengers and ensure transparency. Please find below a summary report of preliminary investigation by NCAA. I will keep you all posted as we have more information.

SUBJECT:DANA AIRLINES INVESTIGATION REPORTThis Investigation was triggered by a complaint by Mr. Simon Ateba received via the social media and forwarded to the Authority. The Director of Operations and Training ordered immediate investigation to establish what transpired.OPERATIONS INSPECTORS:
1. Lawal AbdulKadiri – CSI
2. Augustine Eboigbe – GOI
3. Ayo Jimoh – GOI
DANA FLIGHT CREW OF FLIGHT 357:
1. Terry Harvey – Captain
2. Kowander George – First Officer
3. Jatto Iyabo – SCCM
4. Adejoh Uferi – CC2
5. Chigbufue Augusta – CC3
6. Amazu Ifeoma – CC4

PEOPLE INTERVIEWED:
1. DANA Operations Management Team members available
2. DANA Capt. Terry Harvey (PIC of Flight 357 of 05/12/2014)

OBSERVATIONS AND FINDINGS:
1. The Flight Number was 357 Lagos to Abuja
2. The Complainant – Mr. Simon Ateba, was on board DANA Flight 357 (Seat 14E) Lagos to Abuja on Friday, 5th December 2014 as per attached Passenger Manifest
3. The flight was schedule to depart in the afternoon at 1530 local time but departed on time at 1529 local time
4. Weather report (METAR & TAF) and Low Level Significant Weather Chart attached indicated Thunder Storm and Cumulonimbus clouds activities along the route.
5. The PIC interviewed confirmed there was cloud activities enroute but he could not confirm if the passengers were briefed during the turbulent period but he confirmed there was briefing when they got out of the weather
6. The PIC confirmed that the cabin temperature on ground during boarding was hot due to outside temperature that was reporting 32 degree Celsius but it normalized after take-off.
7. Head of Ground Operations confirmed that the complainant was called immediately they got the report.

CONCLUSION:
After deep evaluation of the flight documents and interview with the PIC, the following were established:
1. That the cabin was hot on ground during boarding
2. That there was significant weather activities TS and Turbulence along the route all the way to Bida, during the flight.
3. That the reported weather activities were enough to cause bumpy ride for the larger duration of the flight

RECOMMENDATIONS:
Based on the observations, findings and conclusions above, it will be pertinent as a matter of reassuring the passenger of their safety for the Pilot In Command to brief passengers when experiencing turbulence during flight.

Sir, attached are the Passengers Manifest, Voyage Report, Tech Log, Flight Release, Flight Report TAF and Meta.‎

HOW I LANDED MY FIRST PR GIG – A GUIDE FOR BEGINNERS

Interested in a career in public relations (PR)? Whether you’re a student wondering what it would take to start your career upon graduation, or you’re considering a career move from your current job to PR practice, you could learn a few important tips from my personal experience.

But before I go on to describe my journey let’s try to define what it is exactly that PR professionals do? Simply put, PR pros use all forms of media and communication to build, maintain and manage the reputation of their companies (if they are employed in-house) or clients (if they work in a consultancy). A career in PR involves gaining understanding and support for an organization or product, as well as trying to influence public opinion and behavior. Ultimately, the work of PR pros helps create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.

So, how did a trained medical scientist like me transitionto the creative field of PR? This is one question I’ve had to answer quite often in my over 10-year career, and I’m happy to share my story with you:

Following graduation from medical school, and my compulsory one year internship at the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, I joined the AVSI Foundation – an international NGO – where I worked as an Haematologist at the AVSI-run St. Kizito Clinics, and also as coordinator for AVSI’s youth projects in Nigeria.During my first two years at AVSI, I realized that I enjoyed working more on projects than laboratory work. Though I was a brilliant haematologist who cared very much for, and was well loved by, his patients, I knew deep down within me that I would find greater fulfillment doing something which, like the AVSI projects, allowed for a lot more creativity and flair.

I enjoyed the research, the brainstorm (strategy) sessions, the proposal writing and presentation, the meticulous planning and execution of the AVSI educational and health awareness projects…and I knew that with my effective “people” and “communication” skills, I could fancy a career in PR, marketing or advertising. Problem was I had limited knowledge of these professional fields and I lacked the requisite academic or professional qualifications (or so I thought).

With my AVSI work demanding so much from me mentally and physically (you couldn’t escape that if you took the job as seriously as I did), I was always drained at the end of the day, and I had little or no time to research what it would take to make the career move. And so, after another uneventful year tethered to the same routine, I made the tough decision of resigning from my “paying” job to find out what it would take to venture into the exciting field of PR and marketing communications.

So, what does it take to start a career in PR in Nigeria? Well, this isn’t too different from other professional fields and countries worldwide: most employers prefer to hire candidates who have a minimum of an HND or BSc qualification. Many who enter this field have majored in public relations, marketing, journalism, communications and advertising but employers aren’t really strict on the field of study. Work experience (for example, internships) in a related field is helpful, and membership of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) is imperative. Much more than the educational qualification, professional certification and technical ability (great analytical and organisational skills, brilliantwriting skills, excellent presentation skills etc.), passion is the singular most important requirement.

Armed with this knowledgeI registered as a student member of the NIPR and commenced the process of certification as a practitioner. While preparing for my exams I also began to research organisations I would like to work with and dispatched about 40 “unsolicited” mails, comprising my resume and a passionately-worded cover letter, to marketing and communication heads oflarge companies and CEOs of PR/Marketing Communication firms. Within 10 days of sending the mails, I received invitation to 3 interviews and got a job offer with Sesema Public Relations as an Account Executive; all these even when I hadn’t majored in any of the “related” courses or completed my NIPR certificate exams.Of course, there might have been an element of “luck” in the way things turned out, but without the preparations I made, the initiatives I took and the passion I demonstrated I wouldn’t have been that “lucky”.

And even if luck got me my first PR gig, it’s definitely taken much more than that to make my career the success it has been; only hard work and professionalism could have earned me the award for “Best Team Member” while at Sesema PR, as well as The Future Awards’nomination for “Young Professional of the Year” and the Institute of Brand Management of Nigeria (IBMN) Award for “Africa’s Young Brand Manager of the Year” both of which I received for my work with Dana Group. Not to mention that, today, I am a one of the most sought after speakers and facilitators at local and international seminars and conferences on all things PR, brand management and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

How can young practitioners and studentsdevelop a career like mine? Here are some useful tips:

Prep Yourself. Ifyou are a student you can start preparing for entry into the PR field by doing any of the following:

• Develop and promote a blog on a topic of interest

• Developand document your writing/communication credentials by working for a campus magazine or radio station

• Join a student club/association of your interest where you can act as the PR officer and organize events (outreach programmes, departmental seminars, hall weeks, concerts etc.) on behalf of the club

• Explore the possibility of getting a part-time job at the school’s media relations department, or an internshipat large media outlets or marketing firms during long breaks

• Join the NIPR and any other related professional bodies likeIBMN (Institute of Brand Management of Nigeria), APCON (Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria) and (CIM) Chartered Institute of Marketing, and obtain relevant certifications

By preparing in these ways you'll distinguish yourself from competition and lay the foundation for a rewarding career in public relations and marketing communications.

Step up to the plate. Whether you’re a student working on a voluntary/part-time basis, or a fully employed young practitioner, you’ve got to demonstrate a genuine interest in the business, freely offering to help a team or participate in an internal project. This may mean extra hours above and beyond existing account work, but it can be very rewarding and give you extra experience. In my first month at Sesema PR I did a SWOT Analysis of the company and got valuable feedback from my bosses, deepening my understanding of the subject. Also, when asked, I was never shy to offer my opinion on issues, increasing my knowledge and strengthening my confidence in the process.

Be a student for life.One major quality of a student is the undying thirst for knowledge. To be successful in PR practice, you must have an open disposition and always seekto learn new things whenever and wherever you can. Even before I kicked off my career I had subscribed to PR Week- an online educational resource for practitioners and, only recently,I joined Toastmasters International - a club that helps members improve their communication, public speaking and leadership skills. It is also helpful to attend development courses/seminars to keep abreast of trends in the industry (Some years back there was very little talk about Digital PR, now you’ll be damned not to embrace it) and the company or client’s line of business (there can be policy somersaults and introduction of new ones, so it is important to keep track of them and manage the impact on the business). NIPR, IBMN, APCON and CIM offer periodic training programmes.

Imbibing these tips won’t just enable you to start your career right; they are critical to sustaining and maintaining your career’s path in a changing world.


Tony Usidamen, a Communications Expert and Social Advocate, writes from Lagos. Email: tonyusidamen@yahoo.com, Twitter: @tonyusidamen

BASKETMOUTH SIGNS NEW ENDORSEMENT DEAL WITH DANA AIR/DANA GROUP

Dana Air celebrates with senior citizens ...recognized for inspiring future generation

As part of activities marking its sixth year anniversary, Dana Air once again demonstrated its commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility by extending love and compassion to senior citizens when it visited the Old People’s Home in Yaba to extend support.

Speaking on the significance of identifying with the aged in the society, Head Corporate Communications, Mr. Samuel Ogbogoro said: ‘’Dana Air is leading in the drive to support charitable causes in the country as it continues to show firm commitment by investing in worthy causes that touches the lives of both the young and aged in the society”.

It will be recalled that the airline recently treated special and orphaned children at the Sai orphanage to an independence party to celebrate Nigeria’s 54th independence anniversary just as it recently sponsored a youth empowerment program, Dare2Dream project, to help Nigerian youths achieve their dreams. This is in addition to other humanitarian activities which the airline has engaged in which includes: feeding the homeless, sinking of borehole water in rural communities, sponsoring pilgrimages as well as supporting eye surgeries to the visually impaired. The airline has also created opportunity for children who have not had flight experience to be ferried from one state to another aboard its aircraft through its Kidz fly progamme.

Also coming on the heels of its sixth anniversary, the Nigeria chapter of Women in Aviation, a non-profit organization; recognized the airline for helping to inspire the next generation of professionals in the aviation sector. While presenting a plaque of recognition as Best Customer Service & IT driven airline, the president of the Women in Aviation, Mrs. Rejoice Ndudinachi commended Dana Air for supporting future generation to build a career in the aviation sector.

Dana Air currently operates flights from its hub at the Murtala Mohamed Airport Terminal 2 (MMA2), Lagos to Abuja, Port Harcourt and Uyo as well as flights from Abuja to Uyo and Port Harcourt. The airline which is reputed for its efficient customer service, world-class in-flight service and on-time performance has airlifted over 2.3million passengers in the last six years of its operations.

A visit to the Old People`s Home in Yaba, Lagos to extend support and donation of items to support xmass party for the less privileged children in makoko..we CARE! ‪#‎DANAGROUP‬ ‪#‎DANAAIR‬ ‪#‎KINABUTI

Dana Air celebrates with senior citizens ...recognized for inspiring future generation

As part of activities marking its sixth year anniversary, Dana Air once again demonstrated its commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility by extending love and compassion to senior citizens when it visited the Old People’s Home in Yaba to extend support.

Speaking on the significance of identifying with the aged in the society, Head Corporate Communications, Mr. Samuel Ogbogoro said: ‘’Dana Air is leading in the drive to support charitable causes in the country as it continues to show firm commitment by investing in worthy causes that touches the lives of both the young and aged in the society”.

It will be recalled that the airline recently treated special and orphaned children at the Sai orphanage to an independence party to celebrate Nigeria’s 54th independence anniversary just as it recently sponsored a youth empowerment program, Dare2Dream project, to help Nigerian youths achieve their dreams. This is in addition to other humanitarian activities which the airline has engaged in which includes: feeding the homeless, sinking of borehole water in rural communities, sponsoring pilgrimages as well as supporting eye surgeries to the visually impaired. The airline has also created opportunity for children who have not had flight experience to be ferried from one state to another aboard its aircraft through its Kidz fly progamme.

Also coming on the heels of its sixth anniversary, the Nigeria chapter of Women in Aviation, a non-profit organization; recognized the airline for helping to inspire the next generation of professionals in the aviation sector. While presenting a plaque of recognition as Best Customer Service & IT driven airline, the president of the Women in Aviation, Mrs. Rejoice Ndudinachi commended Dana Air for supporting future generation to build a career in the aviation sector.

Dana Air currently operates flights from its hub at the Murtala Mohamed Airport Terminal 2 (MMA2), Lagos to Abuja, Port Harcourt and Uyo as well as flights from Abuja to Uyo and Port Harcourt. The airline which is reputed for its efficient customer service, world-class in-flight service and on-time performance has airlifted over 2.3million passengers in the last six years of its operations.

Dana Air highlights achievements as it celebrates 6th anniversary

As Dana Air celebrates its 6th anniversary having started flight operations on 10 November 2008, the airline says it is even stronger and better positioned to further expand and consolidate across the domestic routes even as plans are underway to commence regional flight operations by the second quarter of 2015.

Speaking on key achievements in the last six years, Head, Corporate Communications of the airline, Mr. Samuel Ogbogoro said that despite the peculiar operational challenges inherent in the aviation sector, Dana Air has been able to surmount the challenges and has made giants strides.

He said Dana Air is the first and only Nigerian airline to have successfully undergone an operational audit conducted by the Flight Safety Group (FSG) of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority in conjunction with their foreign partners and has in the course of the last years airlifted over 2.3 million guests.

Dana Air is a trail blazer and has consistently demonstrated a commitment to get passengers to their destinations in a timely manner. The airline’s consistent on-time performance as well as its unique customer service is second to none in the industry and this has attracted commendations from industry analysts. The airline has also received numerous awards in the last few years of its operations some of which includes: airline of the year award by the Transport and Logistics Company of Nigeria; Most Efficient Airline by Accolade magazine; Most Consistent Airline in Hospitality and Customer Service by the Centre for Democratic Governance in Africa; Best Customer Service Company in Airline services at the Nigerian customer service awards as well as Best IT-driven Airline by Technology Africa and Computer Society amongst others.

Mr. Ogbogoro stated further that the airline is not resting on its oars as it is constantly reviewing its operations in line with current trends to meet the expectations of its guests and the flying public through the introduction of innovative products.

Dana Air has also demonstrated responsiveness to the community as it continues to invest in credible Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities that impact and touch lives through the Sri Sai Vandana Foundation (SSVF). The SSVF manages the Sai Orphanage that presently houses 11 children whose daily needs are being provided by the foundation. Also, the airline had previously supported the Sickle Cell Federation of Nigeria even as it is also involved in other humanitarian activities that include feeding the homeless, sinking of borehole water in rural communities, sponsoring pilgrimages as well as supporting eye surgeries to the visually impaired. Presently, airline is helping to empower youths to achieve their dreams through its strategic alliance with the Dare2Dream initiative.