The Director General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Chris Najomo, emerged the star of the night on Friday at the 14th Nigeria Aviation (NIGAV) Awards and Ministerial Dinner, as he was honoured with two prestigious recognitions: the Aviation Lifetime Achievement Award and the Aviation Leadership Achievement Award (Strategic Leadership Category).
Receiving the awards before a distinguished gathering of aviation stakeholders, Captain Najomo expressed profound gratitude, noting that his lifelong dedication to Nigeria’s aviation sector has culminated in the privilege of leading the country’s apex regulatory body.
He emphasized that the NCAA is now witnessing a transformative phase in regulatory oversight under his stewardship.
Founder and Chairman of the NIGAV Awards, Mr. Fortune Idu, described Captain Najomo as a quintessential leader who, from his youth, chose to serve the aviation industry, inspired by his father — a respected aviator.
“These awards are most deserving,” Idu said. “Captain Najomo has, within just over a year of his leadership, repositioned the NCAA into one of Nigeria’s most iconic global brands, a feat borne out of foresight and decades of industry experience.”
In his remarks, the Chairman of the NIGAV Award Committee and former Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mr. Richard Aisuebeogun, said Najomo’s confirmation as substantive DG of NCAA has brought a new era of stability.
“Under his leadership, the NCAA has empowered its Consumer Protection Directorate to tackle major passenger concerns — from high fares to delays and cancellations — thereby restoring trust in Nigerian airlines.”
Aisuebeogun further noted that the NCAA, under Najomo, began reviewing key operational procedures in 2024 to enhance technical and economic oversight and minimize licensing bottlenecks.
Additionally, a collaborative effort with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to review the industry’s master plan was initiated to bolster stakeholder confidence.
Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr. Micheal Achimugu, praised Captain Najomo’s work ethic and commitment. “My DG deserves even more. He works tirelessly and inspires his team through exemplary leadership and effective people management,” he stated.
Echoing similar sentiments, the Regional Manager, NCAA Lagos Office, Mrs. Bukola Aduragbemi Teriba, said the awards are a testament to the revolutionary changes witnessed in the civil aviation sector over the past 16 months.
“The transformation in our regulatory operations speaks volumes of his astute leadership. These awards motivate us as staff and reinforce our belief that we’re on the right path toward greater achievements.”
With these dual accolades, Captain Chris Najomo cements his legacy as a transformative figure in Nigeria’s aviation landscape, ushering in renewed confidence, efficiency, and global recognition for the NCAA.
