Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has lauded the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority’s (NCAA), maturity and significant contributions to aviation safety in Nigeria.
Speaking at the 25th anniversary of the NCAA in Abuja, Keyamo recounted how the NCAA has faced attempts to undermine its authority, including a recommendation for its merger with another agency.
While highlighting its remarkable journey and resilience in the face of numerous challenges, the minister revealed that this proposal, carried over through several administrations, was ultimately rejected under the current government.
“NCAA is a child of God that despite turbulent waters and attempts, sometimes to kill the NCAA, the NCAA, has survived 25 years”.
He emphasized his role in defending the NCAA, ensuring its continued existence and independent operation.
“You know, the Oronsaye reports also recommended the merger of NCAA, and so that was also another attempt to kill the NCAA.That report was passed on, I think, from Jonathan’s government to Buhari government and then to the present government”.
“We have ensured that the NCAA did not die,” Keyamo stated, underscoring the importance of the agency’s separate regulatory functions.
“I kept the battle alive by making sure that the NCAA did not die, if not by now, would have been talking of a merger of NCAA and NAMA”.
Despite financial constraints and a presidential directive to limit foreign travel, Keyamo acknowledged the President’s special dispensation for the aviation sector.
He explained that this exception was crucial for maintaining safety standards through continuous training and development of personnel.
“The President graciously granted this,” Keyamo said, referring to the continued allowance for essential foreign training programs.
He praised the NCAA’s past and present leadership, including its Directors General and directors, for their dedication and expertise in ensuring safe skies over Nigeria.
The minister also recognized the vital role of the aviation sector in national development, facilitating trade, tourism, investment, and cultural exchange.
While acknowledging the sector’s potential for further GDP contribution, Keyamo called for renewed commitment to innovation, technology adoption, infrastructure enhancement, and human capital development.
Keyamo humorously mentioned a request to include Jollof rice on in-flight menus, suggesting that this would require an amendment to the NCAA Act.
He congratulated the newly appointed Director General and expressing his commitment to supporting initiatives that will further elevate the Nigerian aviation sector.
The minister reiterated the government’s focus on improving infrastructure and transportation as key drivers of national growth, in line with the presidential priorities.
