NCAA moves to improve local airlines’ viability, increase economic growth

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), on Wednesday, engaged stakeholders in the Aviation industry with the aim of improving the viability of the nation’s local airlines to meet international standards.

Speaking in Abuja at a stakeholders Summit, the Director General of NCAA, Capt. Chris Najomo said the target of the gathering is to improve, “we want to motivate, and we want to encourage our local operators so that they come up to every international standard and maintain that viability.

“No doubt, a sustainable regulatory framework built on collective engagement and strategic collaboration is critical to achieving
operational excellence, enhance productivity, and sector growth without compromising safety standards.

“This approach aligns with local and international regulations, it is a cornerstone of the NCAA’s strategic focus.

“The theme of this summit, “Building a Viable Aviation Industry for National Economic Growth and Development”,is designed to
foster dialogue and collaboration among key stakeholders.

“We must, therefore, continue to address service deficiencies and poor passenger experiences stemming from inadequate funding.”

Represented by Capt. Donald Spiff, the DG explained that the specific objectives of “this summit include: Bringing together critical stakeholders to advocate for adequate funding, sound financial management and operational safety in Nigeria’s civil aviation.

“Reviewing and enhancing existing service standards to align with international Standards and benchmarks set by IATA, ICAO and
ACI.

“Securing commitments from stakeholders to adopt adequate funding and financial management practices; Assessing existing local laws and international regulations to ensure compliance and improve funding, financial management, and safety.”

Najomo stated that the Summit also aims to Identify gaps in infrastructure and technology to support financial management and operational safety, and recommending remedial actions.

“Strengthening airlines and other service providers to enhance operational efficiency and international competitiveness. Supporting the sustainable growth of the local airline industry while promoting compliance with national and international obligations. Developing a Strategic Vision Plan (SVP) to improve funding, financial management, service excellence, and operational safety.

“At the NCAA, we are optimistic that this summit will make an invaluable contribution to the Civil Aviation Master Plan currently being developed
and accelerate the achievement of both domestic and international goals. By enhancing operational efficiency, financial stability, and
service excellence, we will create tremendous value for all stakeholders” he noted.

A stakeholder at the event, Kikelomo Regi said “I think that if more is done to enhance the processes in aviation sector, or enhance the experience of travelers, the whole industry will be improved, and indeed it will go a long way to improve our economy”.

On his part, the Director Public Affairs and Consumer Protection Services, Michael Achimugu said NCAA will continue to collaborate with relevant Agencies to ensure the growth of local airlines.

“By the time we have sorted out the number of planes in the country, by the time we have sorted out the issue of jet fuel, by the time we have seen what can be done, with some of the taxes, which one of them can be removed totally, or which one can be reduced, naturally These things should bring about a fall in airfare,” he reaffirmed.

The summit is one of the many ways the NCAA is interfacing with stakeholders in the Aviation industry in a bid to foster growth, standards and safety.

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