• Air Peace CEO praises NCAA for boosting airline safety
• Industry leaders stress human capital and partnerships for aviation growth
'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER – As the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) celebrated its 25th anniversary, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, called for sustained efforts in safety planning, stakeholder collaboration, and innovative training practices to propel the aviation sector to greater heights.
The anniversary symposium, themed “Human Capital Development: Upskilling the Next Generation of Aviators,” brought together industry leaders to reflect on the NCAA’s achievements and chart a course for the future. Keyamo, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, emphasized the need for continuous adaptation in aviation safety, particularly in the face of technological advancements, rising passenger demand, and increasing globalization.
“Aviation safety is not a one-time achievement but a continuous process of improvement,” Keyamo stated. “We must consolidate our successes and embrace forward-thinking strategies to ensure Nigeria remains a key player in global aviation.”
Director General of Civil Aviation, Capt. Chris Najomo, highlighted the NCAA’s commitment to embracing new technologies, improving operational efficiencies, and fostering strategic partnerships. He noted that the agency’s efforts align with the Minister’s Five-Point Agenda and President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritize infrastructure development, safety enhancement, economic growth, and job creation.
Najomo also revealed that the NCAA has invited trainers from the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) to enhance its economic regulatory capabilities. “This training will equip our personnel with the skills needed to navigate the complexities of modern aviation economics,” he said.
Former Rector of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology, Samuel Akin Caulcrick, delivered the keynote address, advocating for subsidized aviation training to build a skilled and diverse workforce. “Investing in human capital is not just an option; it is a necessity. We must equip the next generation of aviators with the skills to drive innovation and growth,” Caulcrick emphasized.
Dr. Anastasia Gbem, Director of Human Resources and Administration at NCAA and Chairperson of the NCAA @25 Planning Committee, echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of continuous investment in personnel. “Human capital is the backbone of any successful organization. At NCAA, we are committed to developing a workforce that ensures the safety and efficiency of our skies,” she said.
Chairman and CEO of Air Peace, Dr. Allen Onyema, lauded the NCAA for its unwavering commitment to safety regulations, which he credited for the excellent safety records of Nigerian airlines. “The NCAA is one of the most effective and safety-focused civil aviation regulators in the world. Their oversight has been thorough and uniquely safety-centric,” Onyema stated.
He also praised Minister Keyamo for his transformative leadership, which has driven policy reforms and infrastructural advancements in the sector. “Under the Honourable Minister’s leadership, we have witnessed a remarkable revolution in Nigerian aviation. His dedication has ushered in significant progress, and the sector is better for it,” Onyema added.
Chief Operating Officer of Ibom Air, George Uriesi, commended the NCAA for its professional and firm oversight of airline operations. “The NCAA’s regulatory efficiency has been instrumental in maintaining high safety standards. Their commitment to compliance is unwavering,” Uriesi said.
As the symposium concluded, industry leaders reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the NCAA’s efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s aviation sector. With a focus on safety, human capital development, and strategic partnerships, the future of Nigerian aviation looks poised for continued growth and global recognition.
