As I said, not authoritative, just my thoughts. This is a rumour network after all !!
It wouldn't be beyond the bounds of probability that policy (if that's what it was) has changed.
I did hear that Shell have block booked seats on the ACN 737 between Lagos and Port Harcourt, but that isn't exactly a contract award surely ?
As for jobs, I agree that the highest bidder/best conditions would get their man.
Cheers,
NEO.