By Nnasom David

ABUJA—The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and the Director-General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Chris Najomo, have emphasized the necessity of technological adaptation and deeper economic regulation to ensure a safer and more efficient aviation industry in Nigeria.

Speaking at the NCAA 25th Anniversary symposium held in Abuja on Saturday, both officials highlighted the importance of upskilling aviation professionals to meet the evolving demands of the sector.

The event, themed “Human Capital Development: Upskilling the Next Generation of Aviators,” provided a platform to discuss the future trajectory of Nigerian aviation.

Representing the Minister, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, commended the NCAA for its achievements over the past 25 years but stressed the need for sustained efforts.

“Whilst NCAA has achieved maximum success over the past 25 years, sustaining these accomplishments requires a deliberate focus on safety planning, stakeholder collaboration, and adoption of innovative practices, especially focusing on training and retraining,” he stated.

He further emphasized that aviation safety is a continuous process, requiring constant adaptation and improvement.

“Safety is not a one-time achievement but an ongoing commitment that must evolve with advancements in technology, rising passenger demand, and increasing globalization,” he said.

Similarly, the DGCA, Capt. Chris Najomo, called for a forward-thinking approach to aviation development.

“As we celebrate our achievements, we must also look ahead to embracing new technologies, improving operational efficiencies, and fostering partnerships that will elevate our aviation industry to even greater heights,” he noted.

Najomo reiterated that NCAA’s future direction aligns with the Honourable Minister’s Five-Point Agenda and President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, both of which emphasize infrastructure development, safety enhancement, economic growth, and job creation.

“As we chart the course over the next 25 years and beyond, let us reaffirm our resolve to uphold the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and global best practices,” he added.

In an effort to enhance the NCAA’s economic regulatory capabilities, Capt. Najomo announced that a team of International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) trainers has been invited to train NCAA staff on effective economic regulations.

Keynote speaker and former Rector of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Samuel Akin Caulcrick, underscored the importance of investing in subsidized aviation training to develop a skilled workforce.

“As we envision the future, prioritizing human capital development in aviation is paramount. We must invest in the next generation of aviators, equipping them with skills and training that will propel our industry to exceptional heights,” he said.

The Chief Operating Officer of Ibom Air, Mr. George Uriesi, commended the NCAA’s regulatory effectiveness.

“I know how effectively Ibom Air is regulated. The NCAA is professional and efficient. No matter the relationship you have with the NCAA, you must adhere to the regulations,” he remarked.

The Deputy Chairman of the Senate Committee on Aviation also lauded NCAA’s contributions to the sector, reaffirming the government’s support for enhanced regulation and technological advancements.