NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Aviation

Stakeholders hail Nigeria‘s efforts at aviation safety

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Safety

By Itohan Abara-Laserian

Some aviation stakeholders have expressed satisfaction at the efforts of the Federal Government in ensuring air transport safety.

The stakeholders made their views known in interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos.

They advised the government to intensify efforts at aviation safety.

A former spokesman for the Federal Airports Authority (FAAN), Mr Yakubu Dati, told NAN that FAAN and the Nigerian Airspace Management Authority (NAMA) had shown commitment to improved air transport.

According to Dati, Nigeria has recorded reduced air incidents.

He expressed delight at inter-agency collaboration in the aviation sector.

He praised the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, for efforts in taking Nigeria’s aviation industry to greater heights.

“I want to commend the aviation authorities for collaborating and ensuring that safety remains a priority because, at the end of the day, aviation is hinged on safety.

“However, more needs to be done, of course, in line with International Civil Aviation Organisation standards to be able to ensure that we operate on the same platform with others.

“I also want to commend FAAN for mainstreaming the issue of training.

“It is when you have a trained manpower that you will be able to compete and operate internationally, especially in the area of safety and security,” Dati said.

Mr Ekip Eso, the President of Akwacross Aviation Professionals Association, hailed NCAA for effective regulatory functions.

Eso said that FAAN was ensuring that airport runways were intact, carrying out rehabilitation when necessary.

“The runway has been de-rubberised. FAAN ensures removal of aircraft tyre coatings from the runway because, for every aircraft landing, the tyres are coating on the runway.

“That coating is being removed, which is called de-rubberising. This will enhance the friction.

“On the side of NAMA, it is working on navigational services, it is training and re-training air traffic controllers.

“It has worked on its radios, navigational facilities are up to date, they are all functioning.

“When you aggregate all these functions, it will sum up to what Nigeria is doing to ensure a safe airspace,” he said.

Eso, however, urged more trainings for aviation personnel and procurement of all relevant equipment.

The Chairman of Air Peace Ltd., Dr Allen Onyema, had at a recent event to mark the 25th anniversary of the NCAA, said that the authority’s thorough and safety-centred oversight function had directly impacted the safety records of Nigerian airlines.

According to Onyema, as Nigeria strives to position itself as a leading force in global civil aviation, it should acknowledge its giant strides.

“Focus on safety has directly influenced the excellent safety records of Nigerian airlines,” he said.

According to NAMA’s Managing Director, Mr Umar Farouk, the authority has successfully installed the Instrument Landing System in some airports to ensure seamless navigation.

Farouk, represented by NAMA’s Director of Air Traffic Services, Mr John Tayo, told a stakeholders meeting recently that the agency had also resolved an issue with radio frequencies 127.3 and 120.9 at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.

Also, the Managing Director of FAAN, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, said that de-rubberisation of runways across the country had been a top priority of FAAN to ensure safety.

“We have also deployed additional equipment for friction testing,” Kuku said at the stakeholders meeting.

She added that FAAN had made significant progress in wildlife management although still faced with bird strikes. (NAN)

Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

Aviation , Features

IWD: Evaluating women’s role in aviation sector

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By Gabriel Agbeja, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

Since 1911, the International Women’s Day (IWD), commemorated yearly on March 8, has been about gender equality.

It celebrates women’s achievements, raising awareness about discrimination and taking action for an inclusive society.

In Nigeria, women have distinguished themselves in the aviation sector and were accordingly celebrated by the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN),

At the FAAN IWD celebration in Lagos, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, the Managing Director, FAAN, canvassed for an all-encompassing society.

“What can we do right here, right now? Let us build strong civil society networks and connect with organisations advocating gender equality.

“Let us also share resources, knowledge and opportunities and get involved in supporting women’s empowerment legislations.

“Your voice matters, use it; arm yourself with information; focus on developing marketable skills, not just for yourself but also help others do the same; every small action counts.

“Every conversation you have about equality matters; every time you speak up against discrimination, you are part of the solution; these are the ways we can #AccelerateAction.”

According to Kuku, who is the first female FAAN Managing Director, women can achieve significant progress in a decade or less if they start working together and committing to being part of the change.

She explained that celebrating differences instead of using them as dividing lines would create a richer tapestry of human experience.

“This is not just about fairness; it is about smart decision-making.

“It is about creating a world where talent rises regardless of gender; where innovation flows from all voices, and our differences make us stronger, not weaker.

“When we remove the invisible barriers of bias and stereotypes, we unlock the full potential of half of our population.

“It is like finally using both wings of an airplane instead of trying to fly with just one. The beauty of this vision lies in its simplicity: equal opportunities, equal voices, equal respect,” she said.

On his part, Mr Vikram Singh, the Technical Records Specialist at TGIS Aviation Limited, UK, described IWD as a reminder of how far women have come in aviation.

Singh said work still lies ahead in terms of inclusion in the aviation industry.

According to him, leaders such Mrs Trish Gray, the Chief Executive Officer of the TGIS, and Mrs Charlie Whyman, the Managing Director of TGIS, are breaking barriers that prove that diversity strengthens the industry.

“With Trish as chief executive officer and Charlie as managing director, TGIS is a fantastic example of how female leadership drives innovation and success.

“Their guidance creates a workplace built on inclusivity and fresh ideas, which is a significant asset in the aviation industry,” he said.

Ms Ashante Antonio, a marketing officer in the company, shared her experience about how amazing it is working for a female-led company in a male-dominated industry.

Antonio said she felt always supported and empowered to excel by the guidance and mentorship received at the women-led organisation to break into aviation and develop in her career.

“Although this is my first full-time role, so I do not have experience with other types of leadership, I’ve seen how Trish’s and Charlie’s leadership creates a personal and supportive work environment.

“We hold regular weekly meetings, monthly one-on-ones, and encourage annual team-building activities that bring everyone together. These initiatives foster collaboration and engagement, setting a strong foundation for success.

“It is still a male-dominated field, but it is inspiring to see the women who are rising through the ranks.

“The support and network available for women in this industry are growing, and I will encourage more women to explore aviation as a career,” she said.

More so, Mrs Funke Arowojobe, the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), appealed for gender equality.

Arowojobe, who recently received an ‘Excellence in Leadership Award’ from Women in Aviation, Nigeria Chapter, said the dedication of women in aviation to promoting gender equality was inspiring.

“I have to admit that this recognition is a tribute to the collective incredible women who have paved the way for people like me in the aviation industry.

She praised her colleagues and the management of NiMet for the constant and unconditional support for women like her.

The director also highlighted the importance of mentoring, especially when it comes to young women who want to pursue careers in the aviation sector.

“I am reminded of the immense talent, passion, and resilience that exist among women in aviation. I feel herein lies the essence of this year’s theme ‘Connect, Engage and Inspire’,” she said.

Worthy of note, Hannatu Musawa, the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, joined the global community to celebrate IWD.

Musawa extolled the strength, resilience and creativity of Nigerian women while acknowledging the vital role they played in shaping society.

Her message to mark IWD was apt.

“As we join the global community to celebrate IWD, the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy extends warmest greetings to all Nigerian women,’’ she said.

Recall that the Women in Aviation International, Nigeria Chapter (WIA-N), a non-profit organisation, recently pledged to advance safety and security in the aviation industry.

WIA-N President, Nigeria Chapter, Mrs Rejoice Ndudinachi, made the pledge at the 2024 WIA Annual Conference in Abuja.

Ndudinachi assured that Women in Aviation would continue to support and do all required towards ensuring safety and security in the aviation industry.

“In every segment of Nigeria’s aviation industry, women are present and have been making a very significant impact, starting from engineering, management, aero- medical, media, regulation, training, meteorology and security to piloting.

“Ever since WIA was established, the level of commitment and dedication to duties by women in aviation has increased and this has contributed significantly to the numerous achievements that the industry has recorded.”

The president said the members would keep gaining knowledge by attending international WIA conferences on constant basis, urging them to support and cooperate.

“Today, we gather once again as a community of pioneers, advocates, and change makers in aviation,’’ she said.

Stakeholders say that IWD has become a highly significant day worldwide, with increased mainstreaming of awareness.

The say, however, that issues affecting women such as poverty, lack of access to education, sexual harassment, cultural inhibitions, early marriage, maternal health, among others should be tackled frontally not just on paper. (NANFeatures)

***If used, please credit the writer and News Agency of Nigeria.

Aviation

FG to strengthen aviation regulations for safety

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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

Aviation

FAAN closes MMA runway for rehabilitation 

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Rehabilitation

By Itohan Abara-Laserian

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has  closed  Runway 18R/36L at the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Ikeja  for rehabilitation.

The closure started from 3.00 a.m. on Monday. It will end at 11.59 p.m. on Tuesday.

This is contained in a statement signed by the Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, FAAN, Mrs Obiageli Orah.

According to Orah, the closure is due to ongoing rehabilitation work (asphalt phase) at the A2 Taxiwaylink of the runway.

She said that it was  part of ongoing efforts to ensure that the runway would remain in optimal condition.

“There will be no disruption to flight operations during this period as all flights would be redirected to the alternative runway, 18L/36R,” she said.

She emphasised FAAN’s committment to the safety, security and comfort of airport users. (NAN)

Edited by Ijeoma Popoola

Aviation

FG to advance technology towards safer skies – Keyamo

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By Gabriel Agbeja

The Federal Government says it will engage more technologies to improve efficiency, passenger experience and safer skies in the aviation sector.

Mr Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, said this on Saturday in Abuja, at a symposium to mark the 25th Anniversary of Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

The theme of the symposium was ” Human Capital Development: Upskilling the Next Generation of Aviators”.

Keyamo, who was represented by Dr Ibrahim Kana, the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, said that such technological advancement would play a vital role in shaping the  future of aviation in the nation.

He expressed optimism that technological advancement would lead to economic improvement, as well as an exceptionally safe and secure aviation industry.

“The NCAA Silver Jubilee Anniversary Lecture aims to emphasise the importance of maintaining aviation safety as the foundation of the industry’s growth and development.

“While the NCAA has achieved remarkable success over the past 25 years, sustaining these accomplishments requires a deliberate focus on strategic planning, stakeholder collaboration, and the adoption of innovative practices.

“Aviation safety is not a one-time achievement but a continuous process of adaptation and improvement.

“With advancements in technology, rising passenger demands, and increasing globalisation, the dynamics of aviation safety are evolving rapidly,“ he said.

Keyamo said that the symposium demonstrated collective resolve of rebirthing, rejuvenating and repositioning Nigerian aviation and air transportation in the context of the nation’s social-economic and political landscape.

According to him, the symposium promises to provide lasting solution kits for a new era of the air transport industry.

The Director-General. NCAA, Capt. Chris Najomo, said that the agency had played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of the aviation sector, ensuring safety, regulatory excellence, and fostering growth within the industry.

Najomo said that the symposium indicated collective commitment to strengthening aviation standards, enhancing collaboration, and shaping the future of air transportation in Nigeria.

“Right from the Civil Aviation Department (CAD) to the current NCAA which we are celebrating, our journey has been one of dedication, resilience, and innovation.

“NCAA was built on the growth achieved by its predecessor organisations through remarkable transformations, from regulatory reforms to advancements in aviation safety and service delivery.

“As we celebrate current achievements, we must also look ahead to embracing new technologies, improving operational efficiencies, and fostering partnerships that will elevate our aviation industry to even greater heights,” he said.

Najomo said that the NCAA was faithfully guided by the minister’s Five-Point Agenda and President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda that emphasised infrastructure development, safety enhancement, economic growth, and job creation.

“NCAA will ensure a robust regulatory framework, foster a healthy business friendly environment for investors, and enhance the competitiveness of the nation’s aviation sector in line with global best practices.

“To our esteemed stakeholders, your contributions have been invaluable in shaping NCAA’s success. To our dedicated staff, your unwavering commitment has been the foundation of our achievements.

“As we chart the course over the next 25 years and beyond, let us reaffirm our resolve to uphold the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and global best practices,” he said. (NAN)

Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman

Aviation

Tinubu’s forex policy has transformed domestic airline operations

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By Ikenna Osuoha

Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, Founder, United Nigeria Airline, has commended the Federal Government for creating an enabling environment for domestic airline operators to thrive.

Okonkwo, while commemorating the airline’s 4th anniversary, said that in most African countries, over 70 per cent of airline ownership and operation was by government unlike Nigeria which has a free marketplace.

He commended President Bola Tinubu for prioritising the aviation sector, saying the one trillion dollars target economy for Nigeria’s aviation sector was realistic given the enabling environment.

“The foreign exchange policy introduced since the inception of the President Tinubu-led administration has revolutionised airline operations in the aviation sector.

“There were challenges like access to foreign exchange and the trapped fund saga with foreign operators that gave Nigeria a negative image in the comity of nations.

“Some of these challenges faced by the sector were resolved by the president,” he said.

Okonkwo said operators no longer go through the nightmare of accessing foreign exchange from the banks to offset bills and fulfil their obligations to their partners abroad.

He commended the Minister of Aviation, Mr Festus Keyamo, for putting in place measures aimed at protecting the interest of domestic airline operators.

Okonkwo recalled that the airline’s maiden flight on February 12, 2021, remained the most difficult time in aviation history due to the challenges posed by COVID-19 pandemic globally.

He called on the relevant authorities to consider a single-window source of loans for the country’s aviation industry in tandem with global best practices.

Okonkwo also advocated a three per cent loan interest rate for operators as against the thirty per cent being charged by financial institutions in the country.

“We have no doubt that if they continue in this direction, the aviation industry would achieve the $1 trillion economy that Mr President is targeting.

“If you equate it to a country with about $17 trillion GDP, it might as well be about the 15th richest country in the world. This is huge.

“The Nigerian portion of the cake is still very small. It’s small because the local operators have not been fully supported.

“I still think that the government should consider a low interest regime for the aviation industry,” he said.

He said it was unfortunate that airline operators were competing with other entrepreneurs to access loans.

“If you have to go to the bank today, it should not be anything less than 30 per cent. The profit is very minimal,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Uche Anunne

Aviation

Aviation: stakeholders advocate aircraft maintenance, repair in Nigeria

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By Gabriel Agbeja

Some Nigerian stakeholders on Tuesday in Dublin, Ireland, canvassed for the establishment of aircraft Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) in Nigeria.

They made the call in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), on the sideline of the Airline Economics Growth Frontiers Global, holding in Dublin, Ireland.

NAN reports that the Airline Economics Growth Frontiers Global event commenced on Jan. 12 and is expected to end on the 15.

The event, which is part of Airline Economics Week, focuses on the latest developments and trends in the global aviation industry, with particular emphasis on the finance and leasing of aviation assets.

Some of the stakeholders opined that establishing MRO in Nigeria would help reduce Forex required for overseas maintenance by local airlines as well as create jobs for some unemployed.

According to Mr Herbert Odika, a MRO in Nigeria will reduce foreign exchange (Forex) required for overseas maintenance by the local airlines.

”The convention currently going on is an opportunity for Nigerian carriers to have the opportunity to negotiate for dry lease agreements.

”Airlines, banks, insurance companies, regulators, and the legislative arm of government are present here to ensure the lessors are able to reach agreements with some carriers.

”However, the question for Nigeria is, if given the opportunity, will the maintenance culture be invoked to ensure compliance? Will the banks be strict enough to withhold funds meant to service agreements?

He noted that having the MROs in Nigeria would be beneficial to the airlines irrespective of the risk assessments that would be carried out.

He added that some carriers in Nigeria had proven to be credible when it comes to keeping to agreed terms.

Similarly, Mrs Hadiza Usman, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Policy and Coordination, told NAN, that prioritising MRO establishments would create jobs and save cost in Nigeria.

Usman, represented by Mr Hendrix Odigie, Delivery Manager, Central Delivery Coordination Unit (CDCU) at the event, described MRO as a critical component of the aviation industry which ensures that the aircraft remain safe, reliable, and operationally efficient.

”For Nigeria, developing a strong local MRO capability is essential as the country looks to expand its aviation sector, particularly with plans to adopt dry leasing arrangements with Boeing.

”Dry leasing allows airlines to lease aircraft without crew or operational support, making local MRO services indispensable for maintaining and managing these aircraft efficiently.

”A robust MRO industry in Nigeria would reduce the reliance on foreign facilities, cutting down the demand for foreign exchange (Forex) required for overseas maintenance,” she said.

She added that building a local MRO would save costs for airlines, as well as enhance operational efficiency, and support the local economy by creating jobs and building technical expertise.

The special adviser also said that strengthening local MROs aligned with the broader goal of reducing capital flight and fostering self-reliance in the aviation sector.

She commended the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, for streamlining regulatory frameworks to attract investment into MRO facilities, as well as foster partnerships with global aviation leaders like Boeing.

”As we discuss dry leasing, it is important to discuss MRO next. These policies of the minister are very good and put the Nigeria Aviation sector in the right place.

”These efforts aim to establish Nigeria as a hub for MRO services in Africa, providing the infrastructure needed to support dry leasing operations, while reducing costs and boosting local capacity.

”CDCU is putting modalities in place to sustain policies like this so that we do not go in circles after the President Bola Tinubu’s administration,” he added.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Deborah Coker

Aviation

Insurance reform law will attract global investors to Nigeria – Lawmaker

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By Gabriel Agbeja

Sen. Abdulfatai Buhari, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Aviation and Aerospace Development, has stated that Nigeria’s Insurance Industry Bill 2024, will attract global investment to the nation once enacted.

Buhari made this assertion during the Nigeria Insurance Forum, a segment of the Airline Economics Growth Frontiers Global event in Dublin, Ireland, on Wednesday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Airline Economics Growth Frontiers Global event, part of Airline Economics Week, runs from January 12 to 15.

The forum highlights developments and trends in the global aviation industry, focusing on the financing and leasing of aviation assets.

According to Buhari, the proposed legislation will strengthen Nigeria’s regulatory framework, increasing confidence in the nation’s insurance market and making it more appealing to investors.

“The Nigerian Insurance Reform Bill, 2024, aims to provide a comprehensive legal and regulatory framework for the insurance business in Nigeria.

“It marks a significant milestone in efforts to reform the industry, bringing Nigeria’s insurance sector in line with global best practices by repealing and replacing outdated laws”.

Buhari also advocated for a portion of aircraft dry lease insurance to be allocated to the Nigerian local market.

He explained that involving the local market alongside international insurers would enhance regulatory confidence and provide added security.

Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, CEO of United Nigeria Airlines, revealed the challenge of satisfying both lessors and the local market regarding insurance.

He noted that lessors often require 100 per cent of insurance coverage to be handled internationally.

“The lessors want their equipment safe and secure, we need to find a common ground.

“While there’s no regulation mandating domestication, even a small percentage for the local market is better than none”.

He praised the Federal Government’s initiatives to modernise Nigeria’s aviation sector, adding that industry growth benefits all stakeholders.

Similarly, Mr Olusegun Omosehin, CEO of the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), advocated for 6 per cent to 20 per cent of aircraft dry lease insurance to be allocated to Nigeria’s local market.

He emphasised that such measures could boost Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Meanwhile, Mr Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to creating a favourable environment for global investors in the aviation sector.

He stressed the importance of safety and security in the industry, describing it as a vital part of the nation’s economy. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Jane-Frances Oraka

Aviation

NCAA grants operator certificate to UZMA aviation services

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By Gabriel Agbeja

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued an Air Operator Certificate (AOC) to UZMA Aviation Services Limited, authorising the commencement of commercial flight operations.

The certificate was presented on Wednesday in Abuja.

Mr Chris Najomo, the Acting D-G of NCAA, commended UZMA Aviation Services for meeting all regulatory requirements and standards during the application process.

He urged the airline to prioritise safety, security, efficiency, and excellence in its operations.

In response, Mr Mohammed Abubakar, Chairman of UZMA Aviation Services Limited, expressed gratitude to the NCAA for its support and guidance throughout the certification process.

“We appreciate the trust the NCAA has placed in us by granting the AOC.

“We recognise the significance of this responsibility and are committed to upholding the highest standards of safety, operational excellence, and regulatory compliance,” Abubakar said.

He emphasised the airline’s commitment to adopting best practices, ensuring safety and reliability in all aspects of its operations.

He also highlighted the importance of security, assuring that advanced measures would be implemented to protect passengers and staff.

Abubakar added that the airline’s IT systems would feature robust safeguards to protect sensitive data and maintain operational integrity.

“Our safety policy is the cornerstone of our operations. We are dedicated to exceeding safety standards, ensuring every passenger travels with confidence and peace of mind.

“Your safety is our mission, and we work to make it a reality every day,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Aviation

FG promises advanced digitisation to enhance aviation safety

334 total views today

By Gabriel Agbeja

Mr Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development says the Federal Government will advance digitalisation in the aviation sector to enhance safety and security.

Keyamo made this declaration at the inauguration of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) Flight Data Centre (FDC) on Wednesday in Abuja.

According to him, the administration of President Bola Tinubu is committed to modernising various sectors, moving from analog to more digital and efficient systems.

Keyamo explained that the FDC would help NCAA to regulate more effectively by improving efficiency, saving costs, and enhancing the customer experience within the aviation sector.

“One of our five-point agenda is to improve safety within the sector. This initiative directly contributes to that goal,” Keyamo said.

He emphasised the importance of the FDC in enhancing safety, noting, “This system is not just for handling incidents or serious events; it can be used routinely to track flight patterns, human errors, and mechanical issues during flights.”

Capt. Chris Najomo, the Acting Director-General of NCAA, added that the FDC was a vital part of modern aviation, responsible for collecting, processing, and analysing vast amounts of flight data.

He outlined the key components of the FDC, which include data acquisition, data processing, event detection, and a feedback loop.

Najomo stated that the FDC would help enhance Nigeria’s global credibility by aligning NCAA with international best practices and boosting global confidence in Nigeria’s aviation safety standards.

“As an ICAO Contracting State, Nigeria is obligated to ensure the highest safety standards, and the NCAA’s collaboration with APS Aerospace Corporation supports this effort,” he said.

He further explained that APS Aerospace, with over 100 years of combined experience in Flight Data and Cockpit/ATC Audio Analysis, worked with the NCAA to train selected staff in Flight Data Analysis (FDA) and Flight Data Monitoring (FDM) systems.

“These systems systematically collect, process, and evaluate flight data to identify trends, anomalies, or safety issues, which are crucial for modern aviation safety management systems (SMS)’’.(NAN)

Edited by Ifeyinwa Okonkwo and Abiemwense Moru

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