BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
Floods of encomiums came the way of the Director General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Chris Najomo, at the 14th Nigeria Aviation (NIGAV) Award and Ministerial Dinner held last Friday.
At the prestigious event, where he was the center of attention as he was presented with both the Aviation Lifetime Achievement Award and the Aviation Leadership Achievement Award in the Strategic Leadership Category.
In his acceptance speech, the DG, who has dedicated his career to Nigeria’s aviation industry in various capacities, expressed that it was a fitting moment for him to oversee the regulatory agency, guiding it toward a new era of excellence in regulatory oversight.
Mr. Fortune Idu, Chairman and Founder of the NIGAV Awards, praised Captain Najomo as a remarkable individual who, from a young age, committed himself to serving the aviation sector.
He said, “These awards are fitting for Najomo because, from his youth under the tutelage of his father, a renowned aviator, he carved out a distinguished career in the industry. His leadership at NCAA has not only turned the organization around but elevated it globally, making NCAA one of Nigeria’s iconic brands in just over a year.”
Also speaking at the event, Mr. Richard Aisuebeogun, Chairman of the NIGAV Award Committee and former Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), commended Najomo’s leadership.
He said, “The confirmation of Captain Chris Najomo as the substantive Director General of NCAA promises a more stable CAA capable of effectively ensuring the airworthiness and safety of aircraft.”
Mr. Aisuebeogun further highlighted the Director General’s focus on consumer protection, noting that Najomo had empowered NCAA’s Consumer Protection Directorate to intensify efforts to address passenger complaints such as high fares, flight delays, and cancellations, thus enhancing public confidence in Nigerian airlines.
Reflecting on the agency’s performance under Najomo’s stewardship, the former FAAN Managing Director added;
“The NCAA began reviewing critical procedures in 2024 to enhance its technical and economic oversight, aiming for greater efficiency and fewer licensing bottlenecks. The NCAA also initiated a review of the industry master plan with ICAO to rebuild confidence.”
Mr. Micheal Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, praised his boss for his tireless dedication to the industry, stating, “My DG deserves much more because he has dedicated his entire life to this industry.
Even now, as DG, he works around the clock to ensure everything is done right and on time. His leadership skills and ability to manage people have been key to the NCAA’s outstanding achievements.”
In closing, Ms. Bukola Aduragbemi Teriba, Regional Manager of NCAA’s Lagos Office, noted that the awards were a reflection of the significant transformation within the agency over the past 16 months. She remarked, “Seeing is believing.
The industry has witnessed and continues to see a revolution in the regulatory activities and business operations at NCAA. These awards encourage us as staff, affirming that we are on the right path and must continue striving for excellence in the year ahead.”
