Countries around the world, including Nigeria, are increasingly participating in safety improvement programs led by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) in order to enhance civil aviation regulations on a global scale. Even though Nigeria has achieved Category One status, the highest civil aviation rating by the US Federal Aviation Administration (USFAA), the country did not relax in ensuring compliance with regulations set forth by relevant organizations at all levels. The country and its civil aviation managers have continuously prioritized the training of technical safety and airworthiness personnel to meet these standards.
The country’s regulatory body for aviation, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) have had to confront issues within the industry that have challenged the management capabilities of those in charge in recent years. The NCAA has faced a multitude of challenges, ranging from unbalanced air agreements with more than 80 countries worldwide to funds being held by foreign carriers, hindering access to affordable tickets for Nigerian passengers. Additionally, the debut of Air Peace on the Lagos/London route has added to the complexities that the NCAA must navigate.
Experts have confirmed notable changes in the industry’s direction.
Transformation in the industry led to the suspension of the former Director General, Captain Musa Nuhu. As investigations into the agency’s past issues continue, Captain Chris Najomo, a former pilot and director in the Air Transport Regulation and Public Affairs / Consumer Protection unit, has taken over as the acting Director General. After just a few months in charge of the NCAA, experts in the field have praised him and could confirm notable changes in direction that have taken hold within the governing body.
Najomo, the acting DG, has actively promoted collaboration with concessionaires, Airline operators, and other agency leaders within the industry to support the goals outlined in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. This includes maintaining strong partnerships with key organizations such as the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) and the Federal Aviation Authority of Nigeria (FAAN). Captain Najomo is resolute in his mission to rescue and revamp the NCAA by implementing a drastic overhaul, despite the challenging nature of the task.
R-PAS unit implementation expected to boost revenue.
Moreover, the creation of the R-PAS unit is the result of forward-thinking visionaries. This Innovation will improve safety by enabling thorough Security checks and monitoring. Additionally, it will provide a much-needed boost to the Revenue of the federal government during these challenging economic times. These innovative advancements will draw in Investors who will trust in the system, leading to a surge of positive energy in the industry that will drive unparalleled growth. Implementation of such initiative is not only bold but also timely.
Creating a system for certifying and re-certifying private jet owners not only boosts Government Revenue but also streamlines business operations. By obtaining an AOC, jet owners can transition to commercial use more easily. In a quick turnaround, four prominent airline companies successfully completed a thorough five-stage process to secure their AOC. In the past, bureaucratic delays often prolonged the process of obtaining AOCs for airline companies, lasting around one to two years due to systemic issues. Despite the typically straightforward process for acquiring AOCs, the administration under Najomo’s leadership enforces rigorous adherence to all regulations and SARPS.
Related Article: Aviation industry requires rapid reform
Safety and adherence to best practices is prioritized by the Najomo led administration through regular assessment of the financial capabilities of current AOC holders every quarter. This is complemented by daily thorough surveillance conducted by highly skilled inspectors to ensure smooth and secure operations are maintained. To top it all, ICAO has implemented various safety initiatives over time, including “The No Country Is Left Behind program”, which encourages aviation-consumer countries like Nigeria to participate in order to enhance their aviation safety practices, protocols, and initiatives.