We're making plans to integrate younger pilots into the system

By Chinelo Obogo

The Director-General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Chris Najomo, has said that plans are underway to integrate younger pilots into the system as the older ones retire.

He said this on Friday during a stakeholders’ meeting in Lagos while addressing concerns about an aging workforce and the lack of job opportunities for young professionals as part of a broader update on the NCAA’s recent achievements and ongoing initiatives.

He assure that deliberate plans are in place to integrate younger pilots into the system as older pilots retire. “We are actively working to bring younger pilots into the industry to replace those who are retiring,” he said.

He also revealed that the NCAA has issued five Air Operators Certificates (AOCs) to airline operators within the past year. Najomo attributed this milestone to the streamlined and less cumbersome process enabled by the deployment of technology and the efforts of committee personnel.

“In just one year, we have issued five AOCs. What was once a herculean task is now behind us,” Najomo stated.

In response to this progress, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, urged the NCAA to continue improving efficiency. He suggested that if it is possible to issue an AOC within 24 hours, the authority should strive to achieve that.

“I don’t expect anything less. I’ve noticed that airlines are commending the NCAA for this progress, but it is their duty to ensure efficiency. If an AOC can be issued in 24 hours, why not?” Keyamo remarked.

On the topic of aircraft age and maintenance, Najomo said that while the age of an aircraft is less critical, scheduled maintenance is paramount.

“The age of an aircraft is less important than its maintenance. Maintenance is key, and our surveillance is crucial. The Minister’s efforts with the Cape Town Convention Practice have enabled airlines to access newer equipment,” he explained.