By Chinelo Obogo
As the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) celebrated its 25th anniversary, the Director-General of Civil Aviation, Capt. Chris Najomo, emphasised the critical need to embrace new technologies to drive the future of Nigeria’s aviation industry.
The anniversary symposium, held in Abuja recently, with the theme ‘Human Capital Development: Upskilling the Next Generation of Aviators’, brought together industry leaders to chart a path for sustained growth and innovation.
In his address, Capt. Najomo highlighted the need for the NCAA and the aviation sector to adopt cutting-edge technologies to improve operational efficiency and safety. ‘As we celebrate our achievements over the past 25 years, 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 stated.
Najomo stressed that technological adaptation is essential to meet the evolving demands of the aviation industry, particularly in the face of rising passenger traffic and the need for enhanced safety measures. He pointed out that the NCAA is committed to aligning its efforts with those of the Federal Government, which prioritises infrastructure development, safety enhancement, economic growth, and job creation.
Najomo then announced that the authority has invited trainers from the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) to conduct specialised training for NCAA staff. This initiative aims to equip the regulatory body with the skills needed to effectively oversee the economic aspects of the aviation industry, ensuring fair competition and sustainable growth.
‘In propelling the NCAA to aspirational heights, we are guided by the need to uphold the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and global best practices,’ Najomo said.
The keynote speaker, Samuel Caulcrick, former Rector of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), emphasised the need for subsidised aviation training to cultivate a skilled workforce capable of leveraging new technologies.
‘By investing in the next generation of aviators, we can equip them with the skills and training needed to propel our industry to exceptional heights,’ Caulcrick said. He noted that Nigeria’s aviation sector must prioritise education and training to remain competitive on the global stage.
The Chief Operating Officer of Ibom Air, Mr George Uriesi, commended the NCAA for its professionalism and effective regulatory practices. ‘The NCAA’s commitment to doing what is right, regardless of relationships, sets a standard for the industry,’ he said.