Keyamo, Najomo seek stronger economic regulation, tech adaptation for safer aviation

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and the Director-General, Civil Aviation Capt. Chris Najomo have identified technological adaptation and stronger economic regulation as factors that would ensure to safer Nigerian aviation industry.

They spoke at the Nigeria Civil Aviation (NCAA) 25th Anniversary symposium in Abuja on Saturday with the theme; “Human Capital Development: Upskilling the next generation of aviators”.

The Minister, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr Ibrahim Kana, while acknowledging the successes recorded in the last 25 years, said sustaining the accomplishments requires a deliberate focus on safety planning, stakeholder collaboration and adoption of innovative practices, especially focusing on training and retraining.

He further stated that aviation safety is not a one-time achievement but a continuous process of adaptation and improvement with advancements in technology, rising passenger demand and increasing globalisation.

He noted that the dynamics of aviation safety are evolving rapidly.

The DGCA, Capt. Chris Najomo said as the Authority celebrates its current achievements, it must also look ahead to embracing new technologies, improving operational efficiencies, and fostering partnerships that will elevate the aviation industry to even greater heights.

In propelling NCAA to aspirational heights, and in line with this symposium, we are faithfully guided by the Honourable Minister’s Five-Point Agenda and, ultimately, Mr President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, both of which emphasise infrastructure development, safety enhancement, economic growth, and job creation.

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 further stated.

To enhance the economic regulatory capabilities of the Authority, the DGCA announced that a team of ICAO trainers have been invited to train NCAA staff on effective economic regulations.

The keynote speaker and the former Rector at the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Samuel Caulcrick, said by investing in subsidised aviation training, Nigeria can cultivate a diverse and talented pool of aviators destined to drive growth and innovation within our industry.

“As we envision the future, prioritising human capital development in aviation is paramount. We must invest in the next generation of aviators, equipping them with skills and training that will propel our industry to exceptional heights” he said.

The Director of Human Resources and Administration of the NCAA, Dr Anastasia Gbem, said the NCAA’s goal is to continue to increase and sustain safer skies.

She said: “We cannot do without human capital. Human Capital is a capital asset, and it is one of the most critical assets of an organisation that wants to succeed; thus, priority is given to human capital development at NCAA”.