Thuraya vice president loses luggage at Abuja airport

The luggage containing the personal belongings of Thuraya Satellite Communications Vice President (Products), Martin Kaufmann, was reported missing at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in the Federal Capital Territory on Tuesday.

The news of the missing bags was announced on Wednesday at the official partnership between the telecom giant and TSAT Communications Company in Abuja.

Thuraya is the 6th largest satellite operator covering over 150 countries, delivering cutting-edge technologies for critical communications on land, sea and air.

Kaufmann, who many expected to turn out in his usual suit and tie, was spotted at the event dressed in a borrowed black jacket and a grey pair of trousers.

Speaking with PUNCH Online, the German confirmed the loss but quickly added that he had been assured by the airport authority that it would be found and returned to him.

“Yes, this happened yesterday (Tuesday) when I came into the country. But I have been told not to worry that it would be found and returned to me today”, he explained.

After the announcement of his missing luggage at the occasion, a few dignitaries could be seen walking up to him to console him.

Even the compere, Dorkong Rimdan, couldn’t heĺp teasing him.

“In case your luggage is not found, Mr Kaufmann, I have a few dresses. I don’t mind sparing you some. But we do hope you find it, sir”, she said jokingly.

Efforts to get the reactions of the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development officials who were at the event proved abortive.

They insisted that the Special Assistant on Media and Communications to the Minister, Tunde Moshood, should be the right person to speak on the matter.

When contacted on the phone, Moshood, who appeared surprised, told our correspondent that he was just hearing about it.

He said, “Did you say it happened here in Abuja? I am not aware. But I am going to find out. Let me talk to them first.”