February 24, (THEWILL) – A three-day workshop focused on managing compliance among Approved Training Organizations (ATOs), organized under the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig. CARs), commenced on Monday in Lagos.
The workshop, attended by key stakeholders in the aviation industry, including ATO representatives and personnel from the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), particularly from the Directorate of Licensing, aims to strengthen regulatory compliance and enhance aviation training standards.
In his opening remarks, the Director General of the NCAA, Capt. Chris Najomo, described the workshop as critical to the advancement of the aviation industry.
Najomo, represented by the General Manager, Licensing, NCAA, Mr. Hyelni Bassi, emphasised the need for a proactive and collaborative approach in maintaining high training standards.
“Today, we face significant challenges in maintaining quality and compliance within our training organizations. Rapid technological advancements, evolving regulatory frameworks, and the increasing complexity of aviation operations require a forward-thinking strategy,” Najomo said.
He noted that the workshop presents an opportunity for industry players to share insights, discuss best practices, and foster a culture of transparency and accountability in training programs.
“The role of ATOs in our aviation ecosystem cannot be overstated. These organizations serve as the foundation for producing well-trained professionals who guarantee the safety and efficiency of our aviation operations. The industry, aviation professionals, and the traveling public all rely on the rigorous training and compliance measures we establish together,” he added.
Speaking during a presentation, the Head of ATO Inspectorate, Adoyi Sunnie, highlighted that the workshop was organized based on industry experiences and challenges encountered by the NCAA.
He pointed out that a significant number of applications submitted by training organizations fail to meet regulatory requirements.
“As both the regulatory authority and applicants, we have a shared responsibility to ensure compliance. Training organizations must meet the stipulated regulations, including having adequate facilities, a conducive working environment, access to relevant technical data, and appropriate training materials,” Sunnie stated.
He further stressed the importance of having qualified management and instructional personnel, well-developed policies and procedures, and an effective Quality and Safety Management System (SMS) to uphold industry standards.
Industry stakeholders believe that the training, which will conclude on Wednesday, will delve into various aspects of compliance management, including regulatory requirements, evaluation methodologies, and strategies for continuous improvement.
The workshop is expected to reinforce best practices in aviation training, ensuring that ATOs operate in line with global standards and contribute to the overall safety and efficiency of Nigeria’s aviation sector.
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.
