BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has reassured anxious Nigerians that flights are done without any iota of stress courtesy of its enhanced safety surveillance measures which have made the Nigerian airspace safer than ever.
Acting Director General of Civil Aviation, Capt. Chris Najomo, stated this during the Authority’s annual New Year prayer session held at its corporate headquarters in Abuja on January 2.
The session, an annual tradition, also marked the beginning of NCAA’s 25th-anniversary celebrations.
Speaking after the event, Capt. Najomo emphasised the significant strides made in ensuring safety across the nation’s airspace.
“Our enhanced safety surveillance has addressed critical safety concerns, making our airspace safer.
“And let me be honest with you, what Mr. President has achieved with his Renewed Hope agenda has empowered us.
The Minister, with his five-point agenda, has given us the platform to excel. We are performing and will continue to deliver. Our directors are fully on ground”, he stated emphatically.
Najomo further highlighted the Authority’s recent enforcement actions, citing the sanctions imposed on five airlines for failing to refund ticket payments promptly.
“We sanctioned these airlines, and they accepted their penalties. They have now committed to timely ticket refunds.
“In 2025, we aim to see even better compliance and performance across the board.”
Addressing allegations aimed at undermining his leadership, Najomo remained resolute, stating, “The attacks on me are baseless and do not distract me from my responsibilities. My confirmation as DG is in the hands of Mr. President, and I trust he will act appropriately when the time comes. For now, I remain focused on delivering results.”
On staff welfare, the Acting DGCA expressed the Authority’s dedication to improving working conditions and digital transformation.
“We are moving towards full digitalisation. From the flight data center to CPD and DATR portals, we are introducing innovative solutions to ensure seamless and efficient operations,” he stated.
The highlight of the day’s events was the hoisting of the NCAA @25 flag and the unveiling of the anniversary monument by Capt. Najomo, joined by his management team and staff.
The ceremony served as a symbolic kickoff to a year of celebrations marking NCAA’s 25 years of dedication to aviation excellence.