The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, alongside the Director-General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Capt. Chris Najomo, has emphasized the critical role of technological adaptation and economic regulation in ensuring a safer and more efficient aviation industry in Nigeria.
Speaking at the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) 25th Anniversary Symposium in Abuja on Saturday, they highlighted the need for continuous safety improvements and strategic collaboration among stakeholders. The symposium, themed “Human Capital Development: Upskilling the Next Generation of Aviators,” underscored the importance of innovation and training in the sector.
Representing the Minister, 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 proactive approach to safety planning, stakeholder engagement, and cutting-edge training programs.
“The NCAA’s Silver Jubilee celebration is a testament to its dedication to aviation safety, but maintaining this progress demands ongoing adaptation, particularly with advancements in technology, rising passenger demands, and increasing globalization,” Dr. Kana stated.
Echoing this sentiment, Capt. Najomo emphasized the importance of embracing new technologies, optimizing operational efficiencies, and fostering strategic partnerships to propel Nigeria’s aviation sector to greater heights.
“In driving the NCAA to aspirational levels, we align with the Honourable Minister’s Five-Point Agenda and President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, focusing on infrastructure development, safety enhancement, economic growth, and job creation,” Najomo said.
As part of the NCAA’s commitment to strengthening economic regulatory capabilities, the DGCA announced a forthcoming training session led by experts from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to enhance NCAA staff proficiency in economic regulations.
Keynote speaker and former Rector of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Samuel Akin Caulcrick, advocated for subsidized aviation training to nurture a skilled workforce that can drive industry growth and innovation.
“To secure the future of Nigerian aviation, human capital development must be prioritized. Investing in the next generation of aviators is essential for advancing our industry,” he said.
Dr. Anastasia Gbem, NCAA’s Director of Human Resources and Administration and Chairperson of the NCAA @25 Planning Committee, reiterated that human capital is the most valuable asset in sustaining aviation safety.
“We cannot ensure the safety of our skies without investing in our workforce. Human capital is a vital asset, and at the NCAA, we prioritize its development,” she stressed.
Additionally, George Uriesi, Chief Operating Officer of Ibom Air, commended the NCAA for its robust regulatory framework.
“I can attest to NCAA’s effectiveness and professionalism. Regardless of personal relationships, compliance with regulations is strictly enforced,” he remarked.
The Deputy Chairman of the Senate Committee on Aviation also lauded the NCAA’s efforts in upholding safety and regulatory standards.
With ongoing technological advancements and strategic regulatory improvements, Nigeria’s aviation industry is poised for a safer, more innovative, and economically viable future.
