Hadi Sirika Biography: Age, State Of Origin, Education, Career, Political Offices, Wife, Family, Net Worth & Controversies

Hadi Sirika Biography

Hadi Sirika is a Nigerian politician who served as the Minister for Aviation of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. He was in office from 22 August 2019 to 29 May 2023. Prior to that, he was a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, representing Katsina North Senatorial District from January 2012 to June 2015.

Hadi Sirika is a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and has been involved in various capacities within the Nigerian government, including as a member of the House of Representatives.

Hadi Sirika Age

Hadi Sirika is 60 years old as of 2024.

Hadi Sirika State Of Origin

Hadi Sirika hairs from Shargalle, a town located in the Dutsi Local Government area of Katsina State, Nigeria

Hadi Sirika Early Life and Education

Hadi Sirika was born on March 2, 1964, in Katsina, State. He attended Barewa College in Zaria, a city known for its rich history and educational institutions.

After completing his secondary education, Sirika furthered his studies at the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology, also located in Zaria.

Sirika’s passion for aviation led him to seek advanced training abroad. He graduated from prestigious institutions in the United States, including the Petroleum Helicopters Institute, Flight Safety International, and Delta Aeronautics.

In addition to his aviation certifications, Sirika also pursued higher education in the field of aviation management. He attended the City University in London, where he obtained a Master’s degree in Aviation Management.

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Hadi Sirika Career

Hadi Sirika’s career in aviation and politics is marked by a series of significant achievements and roles. His professional journey began as a pilot in the Nigerian Air Force, where he honed his skills in aviation. Sirika’s expertise in the field was further solidified when he transitioned to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, eventually rising to the rank of Director of Air worthiness.

In 2003, Sirika ventured into the political arena, successfully winning a seat in the House of Representatives. During his four-year tenure, he made contributions to legislative processes and was involved in key discussions pertaining to national development. His political career took another leap forward when he was elected to represent Katsina North in the Nigerian Senate under the platform of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) in 2011.

While serving in the Senate, Sirika held the position of vice-chairman of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) Committee set by the Nigerian Senate. His role in this committee was crucial in driving the nation’s efforts towards achieving sustainable development. Additionally, as a member of the Senate Committee on Aviation, he brought his extensive knowledge of the aviation industry to the forefront, influencing policy and regulatory frameworks.

Sirika’s commitment to integrity and progress in the aviation sector was evident in his vocal stance against corruption. He was outspoken about the ethical ownership of private airlines and was a critic of the then-ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), advocating for progress and change in leadership for Nigeria’s advancement.

In the early 2015, following a merger that led to the formation of the All Progressive Congress (APC), Sirika became a member of the newly established party. His political acumen was recognized when he played a pivotal role in convincing Muhammadu Buhari to run for the presidential seat in the 2015 general elections under the APC banner. Following Buhari’s victory, Sirika was appointed as the Minister of State for Aviation and later reappointed as the Minister of Aviation after Buhari won a second term in 2019.

During his tenure as Minister of Aviation, Sirika oversaw significant growth in the industry, particularly in terms of safety, with a notable reduction in commercial airline accidents. He was instrumental in reintroducing zero import duties on aircraft, engines, and spare parts, which bolstered the domestic aviation industry.

Furthermore, under his leadership, the Federal Government facilitated domestic airlines’ attainment of certification in the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Operational Safety Audit (IOSA), creating an enabling environment for the industry’s growth and sustainability.

Hadi Sirika Controversy and Arrest

Hadi Sirika has been involved in a significant controversy leading to his arrest. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arrested Sirika on April 23, 2024 as part of an ongoing investigation into allegations of money laundering totaling N8,069,176,864. The charges against him include conspiracy, abuse of office, diversion of public funds, and contract inflation during his tenure as Minister for Aviation.

The investigation focuses on fraudulent contracts awarded to a company known as Engirios Nigeria Limited, which is owned by Sirika’s younger sibling, Abubakar Sirika. It is alleged that these contracts were inflated and that there is no trace of work done on any of the contract items to date.

Hadi Sirika Personal Life

Hadi Sirika is married and has children.

Hadi Sirika Net Worth

Hadi Sirika has an estimated net worth of $3.5 million as of 2024.