The 14th Nigeria Aviation (NIGAV) Award and Ministerial Dinner held on Friday at the NiGAV Center MMIA, Lagos, witnessed a momentous occasion as Captain Chris Najomo, Director General, Civil Aviation, received the Aviation Lifetime Achievement Award and the Aviation Leadership Achievement Award (Strategic Leadership Category).
The awards, presented by Mr. Fortune Idu, Chairman and Founder of NIGAV Award, recognized Captain Najomo’s outstanding contributions to the aviation industry, spanning over three decades.
Idu described the Director General as a “quintessential personality” who has dedicated his life to serving the industry, starting from his youthful age under the tutelage of his father, a renowned aviator.
Captain Najomo’s leadership has been instrumental in transforming the NCAA into one of Nigeria’s iconic brands globally, earning international recognition and accolades.
His foresight and experience have enabled the agency to effectively regulate the industry, ensuring the airworthiness and safety of aircraft.
In his acceptance speech, Captain Najomo expressed gratitude to the organizers and his staff for their hard work and dedication.
The DGCA emphasized the importance of collaboration and teamwork in achieving the agency’s goals, stating that “the confirmation of my appointment as the substantive Director General of NCAA promises a more stable CAA capable of effectively ensuring the airworthiness and safety of aircraft.”
Captain Najomo also highlighted the NCAA’s efforts to address passenger complaints, including high fares, flight delays, and cancellations, as a means to bolster travelers’ confidence in Nigerian airlines.
He also commended the agency’s Consumer Protection Directorate for its tireless efforts in addressing passenger concerns.
Captain Chris Najomo’s receipt of the Aviation Lifetime Achievement and Leadership Awards is a testament to his dedication and commitment to the aviation industry, and his leadership has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the industry.
Other notable speakers at the event included Mr. Richard Aisuebeogun, Chairman of NIGAV Award Committee and former Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), who praised Captain Najomo’s leadership, saying it has empowered the NCAA to intensify efforts in addressing passenger complaints and enhancing the overall efficiency of the industry.
Mr. Micheal Achimugu, Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, NCAA, described Captain Najomo as a dedicated leader who works round the clock to ensure the agency’s success.
He attributed the agency’s outstanding results to the Director General’s leadership skills and man management ability.
Regional Manager, NCAA, Lagos Regional office, Mr. Bukola Aduragbemi Teriba, also commended Captain Najomo’s leadership, saying the awards are a testament to the revolution that has taken place in the civil agency in the last 16 months.
She emphasized that the industry has seen and is seeing the transformation in the regulatory activities of the industry and the metamorphosis in the way they do business.
The NIGAV Awards, now in its 14th year, is an annual event that recognizes outstanding achievements and contributions to the aviation industry in Nigeria.
The awards ceremony was attended by dignitaries from the aviation industry, government officials, and other stakeholders.
