BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
For the benefit of local airlines and the country in general, the Acting Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Chris Najomo, has reaffirmed the authority’s commitment to ensuring the full implementation of the Cape Town Convention (CTC) and its Aircraft Protocol.
He emphasised that the agreement, once fully operational, would elevate Nigeria’s aviation sector, aligning it with global best practices.
Speaking at a one-day conference themed “Convention on International Interests in Mobile Equipment and the Protocol on Matters Specific to Aircraft Equipment” held at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, Captain Najomo highlighted the Convention’s transformative potential.
According to him, the CTC enhances aviation financing, safeguards creditor rights, and creates a more predictable legal environment for the sector.
“The theme of this conference underscores the importance of the Cape Town Convention and its Aircraft Protocol as essential instruments for promoting growth, stability, and resilience in the aviation industry,” he stated.
Captain Najomo praised the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, for their commitment to advancing the sector.
He noted that President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda prioritizes economic development, innovation, and global competitiveness.
“The Cape Town Convention aligns seamlessly with this agenda, offering a pathway to modernizing our aviation sector and ensuring its contribution to Nigeria’s prosperity,” Najomo remarked.
“Nigeria’s aviation sector holds great potential for driving economic transformation, connecting communities, and promoting regional integration.
The benefits of these efforts are evident, as seen in Nigeria’s improved ranking on the Aviation Working Group’s Cape Town Convention Compliance Index.”
Captain Najomo outlined the Convention’s critical objectives which include; Streamlined Aircraft Transactions and Asset-Based Financing; Improved Legal Consistency and International Registry and Promotion of Industry Standards by aligning national regulations with global best practices, the Convention supports the growth and stability of the aviation industry, fostering confidence among international investors and financiers.”
He said: “Let me reaffirm the NCAA’s commitment to implementing the Cape Town Convention to its fullest potential.
To support the Honourable Minister’s efforts, the NCAA issued an Advisory Circular on October 16, 2024, providing guidance on regulatory requirements for recording, cancellation of de-registration, and export of aircraft objects located in Nigeria.
“As we embark on these discussions, let us remain focused on our shared vision of excellence. Together, we can build a resilient, competitive, and globally recognized aviation sector that reflects the aspirations of our great nation, Nigeria”, he said.
