The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, and the Director-General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Chris Najomo, have emphasized the importance of technological adaptation and deeper economic regulation in ensuring a safer Nigerian aviation industry.
Speaking at the NCAA’s 25th Anniversary Symposium in Abuja on Saturday, both officials highlighted the need for continuous innovation and human capital development in the sector. The symposium, themed “Human Capital Development: Upskilling the Next Generation of Aviators,” underscored the crucial role of training and technological advancement in aviation safety.
The Minister, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, noted that while the NCAA has achieved significant milestones over the past 25 years, sustaining these accomplishments requires a deliberate focus on safety planning, stakeholder collaboration, and the adoption of innovative practices.
He stated, “Aviation safety is not a one-time achievement but a continuous process of adaptation and improvement. With advancements in technology, rising passenger demand, and increasing globalization, the dynamics of aviation safety are evolving rapidly.” The Minister further emphasized that the NCAA’s Silver Jubilee celebration serves as a reminder of the importance of aviation safety as the foundation for industry growth and development.
Similarly, the DGCA, Capt. Chris Najomo, stressed the need to embrace new technologies, improve operational efficiencies, and foster strategic partnerships to elevate Nigeria’s aviation industry.
He reiterated that NCAA remains guided by the Honourable Minister’s Five-Point Agenda and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which emphasize infrastructure development, safety enhancement, economic growth, and job creation.
“As we chart the course for the next 25 years and beyond, let us reaffirm our resolve to uphold the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and global best practices,” Capt. Najomo stated.
To enhance the NCAA’s economic regulatory capabilities, the DGCA announced that a team of International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) trainers had been invited to train NCAA staff on effective economic regulations.
The keynote speaker, former Rector of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Samuel Akin Caulcrick, emphasized the importance of investing in subsidized aviation training.
According to him; “By prioritizing human capital development, Nigeria can cultivate a diverse and talented pool of aviators who will drive growth and innovation within the industry.”
The Director of Human Resources and Administration at NCAA and Chairperson of the NCAA @ 25 Planning Committee, Dr. Anastasia Gbem reiterated that the agency remains committed to sustaining aviation safety. She highlighted the critical role of human capital development in achieving this goal.
“Human capital is one of the most crucial assets of any organization that seeks to succeed. At NCAA, we prioritize the continuous training and development of our workforce to ensure that our skies remain safe,” she emphasized.
The Chief Operating Officer of Ibom Air, Mr. George Uriesi, acknowledged NCAA’s effective regulatory capabilities. “I know how effectively Ibom Air is regulated. NCAA is professional and thorough in its oversight. Regardless of any relationship one may have with the NCAA, adherence to regulatory standards is non-negotiable,” he stated.
The Deputy Chairman of the Senate Committee on Aviation also commended the NCAA’s achievements, reaffirming the government’s commitment to supporting the authority in its mission to enhance aviation safety and industry development.
