FG to strengthen aviation regulations for safety
By Gabriel Agbeja
The Federal Government has announced plans to strengthen regulations for a safer aviation ecosystem.
Mr Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, made the announcement after receiving the final report of the Ministerial Task Force (MTF) on Illegal Private Charter Operations and Related Matters.
He stated that addressing illegal private airline operations aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of “doing the right thing” across all sectors of the national economy.
“The issue of illegal charter operations involves private jets and aircrafts operating outside the law, especially those obtaining licenses under the PNCF for unlawful activities.
“We are confident that we will have the freedom to take necessary actions. Our goal is a safer, more secure aviation ecosystem in Nigeria,” he said.
Keyamo acknowledged that many people had worked for years to create safer environments and regulatory standards for aviation.
“We will not drop the ball. Our responsibility is to enhance regulatory standards and make aviation safer for everyone,” he affirmed.
The Minister noted that illegal practices by private airlines had existed for years before he assumed office.
“When I took office, I was told the problem was insurmountable and advised to ignore it, but I felt it had to be addressed,” he said.
He continued, “They claimed it was difficult to regulate and that the culprits were ‘untouchable,’ but my experience in civil society and as an EFCC prosecutor taught me to confront such challenges.”
This situation led to the formation of the task force, which was established in June 2024 with experienced personnel.
Keyamo added that the Ministry would collaborate with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to determine practical steps for implementing the MTF report.
Earlier, MTF Chairman, Capt. Ado Sanusi, explained the taskforce’s findings on illegal private charter operators in Nigeria, highlighting significant issues.
“These include regulatory weaknesses, loopholes in the non-commercial flight system, inadequate oversight, and security vulnerabilities, alongside significant revenue losses to the federal government,” he said.
He further stated that 90 per cent of criminal activities at Abuja’s General Aviation Terminal (GAT) were identified by ICAO, including money laundering and drug trafficking.
Sanusi recommended that the GAT be closed and reorganised to align with its intended purpose.
The committee also suggested improvements in safety oversight, enhanced security measures, and greater transparency in private charter operations, in accordance with international standards. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo
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