BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
As the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) celebrates its 25th anniversary, the regulatory body is set to commemorate the historic milestone with a grand symposium, awards ceremony, and gala night on Saturday, February 15, 2025, in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory.
The event, which will take place at the Continental Hotel, Abuja, will not only highlight the NCAA’s remarkable journey in aviation regulation and safety but also recognise individuals and organisations that have contributed significantly to the growth and sustainability of Nigeria’s aviation sector.
Since its establishment 25 years ago, the NCAA has played a crucial role in regulating, monitoring and promoting safety in the aviation industry in line with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs).
Through its strong commitment to aviation oversight, economic regulation and air navigation safety, the authority has positioned Nigeria’s aviation sector as a globally competitive industry.
The silver jubilee celebration serves as a moment to reflect on this progress while also setting the stage for the next 25 years of transformative growth and regulatory excellence.
A key highlight of the anniversary celebration will be a thought-provoking symposium centered on the theme: “Human Capital Development: Upskilling the Next Generation of Aviators.”
This session will provide an opportunity for key stakeholders, industry experts, and policymakers to discuss the future of aviation workforce development, the need for specialized training, and strategies for enhancing human capital in the sector.
Delivering the keynote lecture at the symposium will be Captain Samuel Akinyele Caulcrick, former Rector of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria.
His lecture will focus on the urgent need for skills development, capacity building, and knowledge transfer to sustain Nigeria’s aviation industry for future generations.
Following this, the symposium will feature a series of panel discussions that will delve into critical issues affecting aviation safety, regulatory practices, and innovation in the sector.
The first panel discussion, “Sustaining Safer Skies: The Future of Aviation Safety in Nigeria and Beyond,” will explore emerging safety challenges and global best practices in ensuring air transport remains one of the safest modes of travel.
The second panel, “Navigating the Challenges of Aviation Safety: Lessons from 25 Years of NCAA Leadership,” will reflect on the successes and challenges of aviation regulation in Nigeria, while identifying areas for improvement. The third discussion, “Harnessing Technology and Innovation to Mitigate Emerging Safety Threats,” will focus on the role of cutting-edge technologies in enhancing aviation security, accident prevention, and operational efficiency.
The symposium will conclude with a closing address titled “Collaborating for Safer Skies: The Role of Stakeholders in the Next 25 Years.” This address, to be delivered by the Director-General of the NCAA, will emphasize the importance of industry-wide collaboration in strengthening aviation safety and positioning Nigeria as a leading player in the global aviation space.
As part of the celebrations, the NCAA will also recognise and celebrate individuals and organizations that have played a pivotal role in the development and transformation of the aviation industry.
The awards ceremony will honor industry trailblazers across multiple categories, recognizing outstanding leadership, innovation, and long-term service. Some of the most prestigious awards of the night include: the Eminent Leadership Award, the Chairman’s Legacy Award, the Aviation Visionary Award, the Aviation Industry Champion Award, and the Transformative and Innovative Leadership Award. In addition, special recognition will be given to employees who have dedicated 25 years of service to the NCAA.
The anniversary celebrations will culminate in a Gala Night and Awards Ceremony, set to begin at 7:00 PM.
This grand event will bring together aviation industry leaders, regulatory authorities, government officials, and key stakeholders for an evening of celebration, recognition, and networking.
It promises to be a memorable occasion, celebrating a quarter-century of NCAA’s dedication to aviation excellence and its unwavering commitment to ensuring the highest safety and operational standards in Nigeria’s airspace.
The NCAA has extended an open invitation to all stakeholders within the aviation industry to attend this landmark celebration, as the Authority looks ahead to the next era of regulatory advancements, innovation, and strengthened industry collaboration.
