The Aviation Oversight Committee composed of members from both the Senate and the House of Representatives is currently making preparations to investigate the Safety Investigations Bureau and airlines in Nigeria as a result of accusations of unethical conduct. Abiodun Akinlade, the Chairman of the House Committee on Aviation Technology, announced on May 5, 2024, that the committee is committed to safeguarding the well-being of all Nigerian passengers travelling on both domestic and international airlines.
He emphasized the importance of prioritizing the safety of citizens as a key focus of the 10th National Assembly. As a result, a summit has been suggested for the participation of all industry stakeholders and operators in order to adhere to international standards. They are committed to ensuring the safety of passengers and will not compromise on this principle to save money. The aviation industry has been identified by the lawmaker as having gaps that require immediate attention.
Thorough examination will be conducted to identify problems.
Both the upper and lower legislative chambers’ joint committees are eager to work on the resolution of these issues to ensure the safety and satisfaction of air travellers. He reiterated the importance of the upcoming summit, stating that its main objective is to ensure the identification and rectification of any inconsistencies in the regulations governing airlines in Nigeria. This is crucial in order to enhance the airline industry and align it with global best practices.
In order to tackle the present challenges of the industry, he mentioned that lawmakers will implement essential revisions. Akinlade promised that, once work resumes, a thorough examination will be conducted to identify the main reasons behind the problems in the industry. This will involve reviewing audit reports of the airlines and analyzing reports from Safety Investigation Bureaus. The strict Regulation of civil aviation sets it apart as one of the most closely monitored sectors globally.
Civil aviation operates under Standards And Recommended Practices.
From technical personnel to airport infrastructure, every aspect is subject to certification and oversight by Civil Aviation Authorities (CAAs). These CAAs, in turn, are evaluated by international organizations such as the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to ensure compliance with global standards. Civil aviation operates under the Standards And Recommended Practices (SARP) set by ICAO, along with national laws and regulations. These principles are responsible for governing the guidelines and standards followed in the industry.
NCAA is the top regulatory authority in Nigeria, responsible for monitoring all aspects of the aviation industry, from airlines and their employees to airports, navigational aids, and service providers. Its oversight extends to aviation training institutions and all other entities involved in the industry. NCAA plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of the aviation sector in Nigeria. NCAA is often seen as the ultimate authority, responsible for ensuring compliance with safety and economic regulations in the aviation industry.
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Some have likened its role to that of a general overseer or referee, while others have even called it the police of the industry. Regardless of the label, NCAA’s main function is to facilitate adherence to regulations through a structured set of procedures. The Authority is responsible for establishing safety measures, granting licenses and certificates to individuals and companies, and overseeing their adherence to these regulations through various monitoring methods. In cases where safety protocols are violated, the NCAA implements strict corrective measures to ensure compliance, which could involve imposing sanctions.