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By Chinelo Obogo
The Director General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Chris Najomo, has said that boards for aviation parastatals, including the NCAA, may soon be constituted. This move, he said, is expected to enhance regulatory oversight, and align with the provisions of the Civil Aviation Act 2022.
Speaking at a Corporate Governance and Board Management Seminar organised by the NCAA’s Directorate of Legal Services (DLS) in Lagos recently, Najomo emphasised the critical role of boards in overseeing management, and ensuring compliance with statutory regulations.
He said that the recent inauguration of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) board signals a similar step for the NCAA. Addressing senior officials, aviation stakeholders, and consultants, Najomo said that the responsibilities of the NCAA board extend beyond traditional supervision, aiming to foster a safer and more efficient aviation sector. “A board is crucial for the effective functioning of the agency. I am even committed to self-auditing to ensure we are on the right track,” he said.
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He also said that the legal foundation of the NCAA traces back to Decree No. 49 of 1999, which was enacted before the advent of democracy, and has since evolved into the Civil Aviation Act 2022.
“The Civil Aviation Act 2022 serves as the primary legislation governing civil aviation in Nigeria, aligning with ICAO’s state safety oversight requirements. It defines the functions, powers, and responsibilities of the Authority, including the establishment of its governing board,” he stated.
He said that the NCAA board, once established, will operate within the framework of the Civil Aviation Act 2022, which governs Nigeria’s aviation sector. It will comprise four statutory members: the Chairman, a representative from the Ministry of Aviation, a representative from the Ministry of Defence, and the Director-General of the NCAA. Other members will serve in an ex officio capacity. The Head of the Directorate of Legal Services will statutorily serve as the Board Secretary.
NCAA’s Director of Legal and Company Secretary, Mary Tufano-Eche, emphasised the need for regulatory bodies to enforce rules and policies. “Corporate governance is about rules, laws, procedures, and policies. We are refreshing ourselves to remind ourselves of our responsibilities,” she said.
