February 16, (THEWILL) – Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has called on the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority to sustain its achievements over the past 25 years by prioritising safety planning, stakeholder collaboration, and the adoption of innovative training practices.
Speaking at the NCAA’s 25th Anniversary Symposium in Abuja, Keyamo noted that aviation safety remains a continuous process of adaptation and improvement.
He emphasised that with advancements in technology, rising passenger demand, and increasing globalization, the dynamics of aviation safety are evolving rapidly.
The symposium, themed “Human Capital Development: Upskilling the Next Generation of Aviators,” provided a platform for industry leaders to discuss strategies for strengthening Nigeria’s aviation sector. Keyamo, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, stressed the need for deliberate efforts to consolidate the NCAA’s successes.
Director General of Civil Aviation, Capt. Chris Najomo, also underscored the importance of forward-thinking strategies, stating that while the NCAA celebrates its milestones, it must embrace new technologies, improve operational efficiencies, and foster strategic partnerships.
“As we work towards aspirational heights, we are guided by the Honourable Minister’s Five-Point Agenda and Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, both of which emphasize infrastructure development, safety enhancement, economic growth, and job creation,” Najomo said.
He further disclosed that, in a bid to enhance NCAA’s economic regulatory capabilities, a team of International Civil Aviation Organisation trainers had been invited to train NCAA personnel on effective economic regulations.
Delivering the keynote address, former Rector of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology, Samuel Akin Caulcrick, advocated for subsidised aviation training, stressing that investing in human capital would produce a diverse and skilled workforce capable of driving growth and innovation in the sector.
“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 the skills and training necessary to propel our industry to greater heights,” Caulcrick stated.
Dr. Anastasia Gbem, Director of Human Resources and Administration at NCAA and Chairperson of the NCAA @25 Planning Committee, echoed the importance of continuous investment in personnel.
“Human capital is a critical asset for any organisation that aims to succeed. At NCAA, our focus remains on developing and sustaining a highly skilled workforce to ensure the continued safety of our skies,” she said.
Chief Operating Officer of Ibom Air, George Uriesi, also commended NCAA’s regulatory efficiency, stating that the agency maintains a professional and firm oversight of airline operations.
“I know firsthand how effectively Ibom Air is regulated. The NCAA is professional and uncompromising when it comes to safety and compliance,” Uriesi said.
Anthony Awunor, is a business correspondent who holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Linguistics (UNILAG). He is also an alumnus of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria Kaduna State. He lives in Lagos.
