Stakeholders Laud Najomo’s Reforms, Call for His Confirmation as NCAA DG
****As Aviation Experts Commend Najomo’s Reforms
Stakeholders in Nigeria’s aviation sector have hailed the significant achievements of Capt. Chris Najomo, Acting Director-General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), within his first year in office, with many calling for his confirmation as the substantive DG.
Najomo, who assumed office in December 2023, has introduced key reforms aimed at repositioning the NCAA to enhance regulatory oversight, improve passenger welfare, and promote industrial harmony within the aviation sector.
The African Aviation Renaissance Group’s spokesman, Comrade Akanbi Adimula, described Najomo’s tenure as transformational, citing initiatives like the creation of a Project Monitoring and Contract Evaluation Unit (PMCEU) to promote transparency and a Quality Assurance Department to ensure compliance with technical and non-technical standards.
He also praised the establishment of a Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) Unit, which has simplified drone registration and certification processes for Nigerians.
“Najomo’s leadership has liberalized drone operations, making it easier for Nigerians to register and operate UAVs. His efforts in deploying the EMPIC-EAP regulatory software have modernized NCAA’s processes, putting Nigeria on par with global aviation standards,” Adimula noted.
The Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), NCAA Chapter, commended Najomo for fostering industrial harmony within the agency.
ATSSSAN Chairman, Comrade Aderemi Aderinkomi, praised Najomo’s open-door policy and his recognition of aviation staff as critical to ensuring safety, security, and the growth of civil aviation in Nigeria.
“We commend the Acting DG for his passion and resilience in repositioning the NCAA. His leadership has created an enabling environment for staff and management to collaborate effectively,” Aderinkomi said.
The Joint Action Congress (JAC), representing various aviation unions, also expressed confidence in Najomo’s leadership, urging the federal government to confirm his appointment.
Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the NCAA, Michael Achimugu, highlighted Najomo’s efforts in enhancing consumer protection and improving safety standards.
“Najomo’s commitment to the Ease of Doing Business mantra without compromising standards has made a tremendous impact on the industry. The flight data center, which he introduced, is a huge step in accident prevention and data collation,” Achimugu said.
He also noted that the Directorate of Air Transport Regulations (DATR) portal and timely payment of workers’ entitlements under Najomo’s leadership have further boosted staff morale and operational efficiency.
Stakeholders believe Najomo’s reforms have restored confidence in the NCAA, positioning the regulatory body as one of the leading civil aviation authorities in Africa.
“We believe Capt. Najomo has the vision to take the NCAA to greater heights. His leadership has brought stability and progress to the sector. We urge the government to confirm his appointment to allow him continue his good work,” Chief Solomon Agbo, an aviation expert, said.
As the aviation industry continues to evolve, stakeholders are optimistic that Najomo’s leadership will bring sustainable growth and global recognition to Nigeria’s civil aviation sector.
Courtesy, ‘sade Williams’