Igbinosa Aituamen
Nigerian aviation leaders have called for technological adaptation and enhanced economic regulation to further in bolster the safety and growth of the nation’s aviation industry.
These calls were made during the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) 25th Anniversary symposium held in Abuja.
The symposium with the theme “Human Capital Development: Upskilling the next generation of aviators,” brought together key stakeholders to discuss the future of Nigerian aviation.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, represented by the Permanent Secretary Dr. Ibrahim Kana, highlighted the NCAA’s past successes while emphasizing the need for continued focus on safety planning, stakeholder collaboration, and innovative practices, particularly in training and retraining.
The minister stressed that aviation safety is an ongoing process requiring adaptation and improvement in response to technological advancements, rising passenger demand, and increasing globalization.
Director General, Civil Aviation, Captain Chris Najomo, echoed these sentiments, stating that the authority must embrace new technologies, improve operational efficiencies, and foster partnerships to elevate the industry.
He affirmed that the NCAA’s efforts are aligned with the Minister’s Five-Point Agenda and President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritize infrastructure development, safety enhancement, economic growth, and job creation.
Captain Najomo also announced that ICAO trainers have been invited to train NCAA staff on effective economic regulations, aiming to strengthen the authority’s regulatory capabilities.
Keynote speaker and former Rector of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Captain Samuel Akin Caulcrick, advocated subsidized aviation training to cultivate a diverse pool of talented aviators.
He emphasized that investing in human capital development is crucial for the industry’s future success.
Director of Human Resources and Administration, NCAA and Chairperson of the NCAA @25 Planning Committee, Dr. Anastasia Gbem reiterated the authority’s commitment to maintaining and increasing safety in Nigerian skies, saying that human capital development is a top priority.
Chief Operating Officer of Ibom Air, Mr. George Uriesi, acknowledged the NCAA’s effective and professional regulatory oversight, noting that compliance is essential regardless of relationships.
The Deputy Chairman of the Senate Committee on Aviation also praised the NCAA’s contributions during the event.