Category: Aviation

  CHUKS OKOH. When two highly competent personnel bring their talents, discipline, and vision into alignment, the effect on an organisation can be transformative. Such synergy is what Nigeria’s aviation is witnessing with the coming on board of the Director General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt Chris Najomo and the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr Michael Achimugu. There are about eleven Directorates in NCAA and they are equally important, playing different roles effectively. Some of these Directorates include: Aerodrome & Airspace Standards (DAAS), Airworthiness Standards (DAWS), Air Transport Regulation (DATR), Aviation Security (DAS), Finance & Accounts (DFA), Operations, Licensing & Training Standards (DOLTS), Corporate Services (DCS), Public Affairs & Consumer Protection (DPA/CP), Human Resources & Administration (DHR&A), Directorate of Legal Services / Company Secretary (DLS/CS) and Directorate of Special Duties (DSD). Initially, there were fewer directorates but some directorates such as Public Affairs & Consumer Protection, Corporate Services, Aviation Security stem from a re-organisation approved during the previous administration. Specifically, under Najomo’s watch, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo approved the establishment of the Directorate of Special Duties (DSD) and Directorate of Corporate Services (DCS) for better focus and efficiency. In addition to this and in his wisdom, Najomo created a dedicated Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) unit (i.e. drone regulation) to handle the emerging area of unmanned aircraft. Also under his watch, a Project Monitoring & Contract Evaluation Unit (PMCEU) was set up to improve accountability in how NCAA projects are managed. A Quality Assurance Department was also created to ensure stricter compliance with both technical and non-technical policies. However, the Consumer Protection Directorate seems to be one of the most serious departments because of the plethora of complaints associated with flight delays, cancellations, baggage loss, refunds amongst others. Before Achimugu came into the picture, consumer protection was at its lowest ebb. Flight-related complaints such as flight delays, flight cancellations, mMissed connections caused by delays, poor communication during delays or disruptions, and unannounced schedule changes were coming in droves with little or no serious attention. There were also a plethora of Baggage Issues that has to do with lost baggage, delayed baggage, damaged baggage, Pilfered (stolen) items, excessive baggage fees and poor handling at baggage claim. Ticketing & Booking Problems such as overbooking / denied boarding, high or unclear change/cancellation fees, difficulty getting refunds, incorrect ticketing by airline or agent and hidden charges not disclosed upfront were all there. Today, all that have changed and serious attention is given to how customers are treated by the airlines and other companies within the aviation sector. With a well focused DG, the cooperation between him and the Director of Consumer Protection became very cordial. This understanding, from all indications has yielded fruits as the collaborative energy creates a multiplier effect; decisions become sharper, communication becomes seamless, and goals are pursued with unified momentum. This is exactly what is obtainable at the NCAA of today, where they have an environment that boosts staff morale, making the organisation to gain the stability and clarity needed to advance its mission. Ultimately, the partnership of these two strong leaders doesn’t just add value to NCAA but amplifies it, setting the entire institution on a trajectory of sustained progress. With such camaraderie, Najomo, since assuming office, has driven reforms focused on safety oversight, regulatory efficiency, consumer protection, and sector-wide modernization. His leadership has positioned the NCAA as a more proactive, responsive, and reform-oriented regulator in line with global aviation standards. A large dose of work have been done on Safety, with the implemention of stricter monitoring of airlines and aviation service providers to ensure adherence to Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations (NigCARs).m Such synergy has improved coordination with ICAO and other international bodies ahead of safety audits. This is just as Najomo has also encouraged airlines to enhance maintenance standards, crew training, and operational discipline amongst others. In areas of consumer protection, Nigeria has never had it so good. Few days ago, the NCAA courageously sanctioned Qatar Airways ₦5 million for consumer protection infractions. Between December last year and now, the NCAA initiated enforcement action against several airlines, both local and international, for violations of Part 19 of the NCAA Regulations. In doing all these, NCAA has been able to carry out more assertive enforcement of passenger rights through the Directorate of Public Affairs & Consumer Protection. They have also supported transparent publication of regulatory actions, including fines and Letters of Investigation on airlines violating consumer rules. The consumer protection department in particular took it upon themselves and encouraged campaigns and awareness drives to educate passengers on their rights and responsibilities. Achimugu’s magic wand is not unconnected with effective use of the social media, particularly the X. As a matter of fact, his public statements on unruly passengers, and the Authority’s willingness to sanction airlines that flout consumer rules, have helped set behavioral and operational norms across the network. All these efforts under Najomo leadership have helped to reduce instances of unchecked airline infractions, helping to restore passenger confidence. In conclusion, Najomo and Achimugu stewardship of the NCAA reflects a commitment to safety, transparency, industry modernisation, and consumer justice.  

    CHUKS OKOH The managing director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) Engr Umar Farouk says, the management is working round the clocks to see that all the operational, administrative and general welfare of ATSEP receives deserved attention. Speaking at the Annual General Meeting of the National Association of Air Traffic Engineers (NAAE) in Lagos, Engr Farouk noted that the theme of this year’s AGM “Safety, Efficiency and Innovation: The Triple Mandate of Air Traffic Engineers” captures the essence of the transformation currently shaping the global airspace management landscape. Represented by the Director of Air Traffic Services NAMA, Mr John Tayo, said “In a world where technological evolution continues to redefine aviation, our responsibility is not only to keep pace but to lead with clarity, competence, and creativity” Farouk said the management of NAMA recognizes ATSEP sacrifices and tenacity in their quest for excellence in the provision of air navigation services in Nigeria adding that their toiling and sweats are not unnoticed. “As Air Traffic Engineers, you occupy a strategic position in sustaining the integrity of our Communication, Navigation, and Surveillance (CNS) infrastructure. Your expertise remains the backbone of safe and efficient air traffic management. Every radar sweep, every communication channel, every navigational aid, and every emerging digital system depends on your vigilance, precision, and innovation”.   Farouk said NAMA recognizes the work of the engineers and value their contribution, remaining fully committed to supporting a professional environment where  skills can flourish and where modern technology and continuous training are prioritized. He stated that the Agency’s ongoing modernization efforts from CNS upgrades to advanced automation systems are built on a foundation strengthened by the engineers competence and dedication.   “This gathering is not only an opportunity for technical dialogue; it is also a platform for collaboration, mentorship, and alignment with global best practices. I urge you to engage deeply, share boldly, and challenge conventional thinking as we collectively shape the future of air navigation services in Nigeria”   Farouk commends their commitment, especially in the face of operational and infrastructural challenges adding that their resilience continues to uphold the safety of Nigerian airspace, and for that, the nation remains grateful. The president of National Association of Air Traffic Engineers (NAAE), Engr Selzing in his opening speech said there is an improvement in the working environment of it’s members in the Nigeria Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) under the current leadership of Engr Umar Farouk. Miri noted that it was not the same situation in Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, Nigeria College of Aviation Technology and other sectors where it has members and urged them to brace up   Miri who admitted the improvement in the working environment noted that there were positive signs under the Engr Farouk Umar leadership   The NAAE boss noted that technology is evolving and there is the need for the engineers to catch up with the pace especially with the installation of new facilities in NAMA   Miri said training and retraining has remained the greatest challenge of air traffic engineers in the country but noted that in NAMA, the engineers are being trained but other agencies are not living up to expectations in training and retraining.   He noted that the wide gap in training was as a result of neglect in the past which has remained difficult to close.   The NAAE boss blamed the poor maintenance of facilities borders on funds but commended the NAMA Management for embarking on installation of modern navigational facilities.  

CHUKS OKOH The Group Managing Director of Finchglow Holdings, the parent company of six travel and aviation-focused businesses, Mr Bankole Bernard, has been appointed as the Chairman of the Cargo Accounts Settlement Systems (CASS), Nigeria Local Consultative Council (LCC). A statement signed by the Public Relations Manager Finchglow Holdings, Temilade Adu, informed that his appointment was confirmed recently by the Directorate of CASS in a statement to the public. CASS Nigeria, through its Local Consultative Council (LCC), is a crucial pillar in the nation’s aviation industry, responsible for ensuring transparency and strengthening the financial settlement framework between airlines, logistics partners, and cargo operators. As the industry navigates rising demand for efficiency, data integrity, and system-wide collaboration, the Council’s leadership has become even more pivotal. Bernard’s appointment comes at a defining moment for CASS Niger.

    CHUKS OKOH The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Mr Festus Keyamo and the executive governor of Plateau State Bar Caleb Mutfwang are expected to grace the fourth Quadrennial national delegates conference of the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN’s) in Jos. A statement by the chairman conference planning committee, Comrade Emmanuel Jaja said the governor will be hosting while aviation minister will be the guest of honour. According to the committee, the theme of the conference is “HUMAN CAPITAL NEEDS OF THE CIVIL AVIATION IN NIGERIA;CHALLENGES & Prospects, it will also feature symposium on career prospects in aviation industry. The committee said Jonggrand Hotel and Event Center, Yohanna Dalyop Avenue,Opposite Fire Service, Bukuru Express Way, Jos Plataea State, will be the venue on 10th December 2025 at 9:00am . ATSSSAN is an affiliate of the International Transport Workers’ Federation (IF), Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC)  and World Federation of Trade Unions (WFTU). Comrade Jaja disclosed that all necessary arrangements have been put in place to ensure a smooth exercise in the city of Jos.

CHUKS OKOH The National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE) on Thursday issued a seven days ultimatum to the management of Aviation Logistics and Management Ltd., to address workers welfare regarding 13th month salary, staff right of association, unaccountable dues collection among others. The warning is contained in a statement signed by the Deputy General Secretary of the association, Odinaka Igbokwe in Lagos after a meeting on December 3. According to the statement, NUATE had on November 24, written to the firm asking for a meeting to be held on December 3, to discuss the need to address the issues but the representative of the management failed to show up. “Today, 3 of December, we made calls to you which you ignored. For the meeting, we suggested you deliberately absented yourself. The visit to your office was frustrating, because you increased the number of securities to ward us off. “Please do note that over the years you have gone contrary to Section 40 of the Nigerian constitution by preventing your workers from becoming Union members and executives. “They do not have representation before your management in their collective. You have made collective bargaining impossible, contrary to all known modern industrial practices and faws. To the list of your offences, you give us dues without producing the list of staff from whom it was deducted. “In seven days, you must address ail the issues raised above or in default take responsibility for any action which we will take to correct the above anomalies. You have been warned,” the statement read.

      CHUKS OKOH,   The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN’s) Aviation Security  (AVSEC) and Aviation Rescue and Fire Fighting Service (ARFFS) units recruited in 2016/2017, have condmned what they called unequal treatment, treatment, career stagnation, and abuse of office that have affected their ranks, progression, and welfare. They are calling on the management of FAAN to intervene and address the issue for peace to reign in the organisation According to the affected anonymous personnel, most of them were mandated to submit their OND/SSCE despite possessing HND/B.Sc. degrees during their employment, which they complied with. Years after, their higher qualifications have not been recognized leaving them stagnated despite being more qualified and more experienced than those being recruited after them Meanwhile, officers recruited from 2019–2023, who faced the same entry restrictions, were later allowed to resubmit their HND/B.Sc. and upgraded to higher ranks and their qualification backdated to point of entry. They were placed above their seniors both in seniority and remunerations. This  has reversed hierarchy, caused injustice, and destroyed morale of the people they met It was further gathered that conversion was done which did not affect the personnel already reached GL-8 as  it did not change rank or salary without correcting the entry injustice While the 2019–2023 officers received full upgrades, not conversion, their qualifications were reviewed at point of entry which has given them edge over the 2016/2017 batch. It was further gathered that they were  allegations that some senior officials (GMs/Directors) have used their positions to sexually intimidate female officers seeking help with their upgrades. This it was learned has caused resignations by some who could not cope with the trauma and emotional distress. To verify fairness, personnel files of AVSEC/ARFFS officers recruited 2016–2018 and 2019–2023 and records showing entry qualifications, dates of conversion/upgrades, approval memos for the 2019–2023 upgrade exercise, promotion histories and comparison of treatment should be called for. An anonymous top labour leader in one of the unions in the industry who confirmed the practice disclosed that they are awaiting for briefing from the affected personnel to meet with the FAAN management to resolve the differences “I am aware of it and they have not come to us, but once we get their petition, we will schedule a meeting with the Managing Director” Contacted, the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection FAAN, Mr Henry Agbebire, promised to get back to our aviation editor but never did after 24 hours.

      CHUKS OKOH. The Chairman of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) Aviation Chapter, Mr. Ayodele Samuel Olatiregun, FCA, has joined professionals across the world to celebrate the 2025 International Accounting Day. He praised accountants as pillars of trust, transparency, and economic stability. In a goodwill message marking the annual event observed every November 10, Mr. Olatiregun paid tribute to the diligence and integrity of accountants whose expertise, he said, “keeps the world’s finances in balance and sustains the trust that underpins economic growth.” Reflecting on the significance of the day, which commemorates the publication of Luca Pacioli’s groundbreaking 1494 work on double-entry bookkeeping, the ICAN Aviation Chapter Chairman described accountants as “embodiments of insight, accountability, and excellence”. He added that their contributions extend beyond figures to the very foundations of good governance and sustainable development. According to him, “In aviation and beyond, “accountants continue to drive transparency and fiscal discipline, strengthening both the aviation industry and the global economy. As we celebrate this day, we must take pride in our role as custodians of financial integrity and partners in progress.” To commemorate the occasion, the ICAN Aviation Chapter will hold a virtual interactive session with members on Monday, November 10, 2025, at 12:00 PM via Zoom. The session will feature professional discussions and knowledge sharing on emerging trends shaping the accounting profession, with further details to be shared through the Chapter’s official communication channels. Mr. Olatiregun reaffirmed the Chapter’s commitment to promoting professionalism, ethics, and innovation within the aviation and global accounting ecosystem. He urged members to continue upholding the values that define the profession’s enduring relevance and global respect.

  CHUKS OKOH An Air Traffic Controller and Deputy General Manager (Operations) with the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Comrade Oluwole Dada, has officially declared his intention to contest for the position of National President of the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), pledging constructive engagement in all union matters, a comprehensive review of the union’s constitution, and leadership anchored on equity, fairness, and inclusiveness. Declaring his ambition in Lagos over the weekend, Comrade Dada promised a solution-oriented approach to resolving all issues between management and the union through mutual respect, open communication, and cooperation rather than confrontation. He emphasized that the ATSSSAN constitution was long overdue for review to ensure inclusiveness and balanced representation among all members and affiliates. According to him, members from the private sector have continued to agitate for greater participation and leadership opportunities, adding that his administration would promote unity, fairness, and a sense of belonging across all segments of the union. “The private sector arms of our union have been yearning for an opportunity to contribute to leadership. We must make inclusiveness a reality and give everyone a sense of BELONGING” Dada said. The ATSSSAN presidential hopeful, who currently serves as Branch Chairman of ATSSSAN NAMA, also pledged to uphold members’ dignity, enhance welfare packages, and ensure that the Secretariat staff are well motivated and adequately remunerated. He further emphasized the importance of continuous engagement with affiliate bodies on welfare matters, adding that his leadership would be committed to improving members’ conditions of service across all branches. “As a thoroughbred professional in the aviation industry, I will drive the union to greater heights for the benefit of all branches. We must unite and resolve internal differences for the collective good of our members “he affirmed. On post-election unity, Dada stressed that his administration would prioritize reconciliation, teamwork, and inclusiveness, noting that elections should strengthen rather than divide the union.”The greatest problem about elections is what happens afterward. If elected, I will ensure genuine engagement with all parties to promote peace and progress within the union” he assured. Dada also condemned the trend where presidents of the three major aviation unions emerge from a single organization, describing it as unfair and detrimental to industrial harmony. “Must all union presidents come from one organization, as if others lack capable leaders? It is not healthy, not fair, and not good for the industry” he cautioned. On the airport concession policy, Dada revealed that he had participated in several stakeholder meetings and reaffirmed that workers’ welfare must remain the top priority. “We will not allow the airport concession process to go the way of the defunct Nigeria Airways, where workers were left to suffer without their entitlements. All staff issues and liabilities must be fully resolved before any concession takes place” he stated. He acknowledged that welfare remains a major challenge in many organizations, particularly within the private aviation sector, and pledged to engage managements through constructive dialogue to improve members’ welfare and working conditions. On the issue of casualization, Dada assured that the practice would be decisively addressed, citing the success recorded in NAMA where casual staff were absorbed into full employment through sustained engagement. He also expressed readiness to unionize non-member organizations through peaceful and continuous dialogue with their managements, with the goal of strengthening the union’s presence and influence across the aviation industry. Concluding, Comrade Dada assured all ATSSSAN members of equitable treatment, discipline, and transparent leadership, vowing to steer the union with integrity, inclusiveness, and accountability. He declared “Every member of ATSSSAN will be treated equally. My administration will be anchored on integrity, fairness, and discipline for the good of all”

  CHUKS OKOH, An aspirant for the National Presidency of Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), Comrade John Ogala Ogbe, has canvassed the adoption of new strategies by aviation unions in engaging the Federal Government, its agencies and private sector employers in the industry. Rather than resorting to the instrument of industrial unrest , Ogbe said the most appropriate strategy is to offer solutions through dialogue based negotiations that will offer a win – win for the already challenged air transport sector. Speaking while unveiling his plans to achieve a paradigm shift on how labour unions should operate in the aviation industry, Comrade Ogbe said collaboration, cooperation, capacity building and deep understanding of modern trends in conflict resolution should be the new normal. He said though the current crop of leaders in ATSSSAN may have contributed what they consider as their best in advancing the welfare of workers, clear gaps in navigating recurring challenges has made it compelling for new thinking. Ogbe said his team promises to engage the government differently through solution based unionism , facts based negotiations that considers all aspects of advocacy. He said his team will reposition and revive union activities through dialogue , collaboration and deeper consultations to create a more enabling environment that will bolster trust. Ogbe said his team will adopt new tactics , including lobby and advocacy to drive home issues that border on staff welfare by softening ground with the authorities. He said : “There are lots of issues in the aviation sector today, requiring that labour unions shift in their strategies in order to remain relevant. The conflict resolution mechanism has to change from the old methods utilised by our leaders. “The new order is for labour leaders to engage government and organisations with a solution offer. We need to demonstrate capacity and understanding of the issues during negotiations, such that we earn the understanding of the other parties. “There has to be open channels of communication with the seventeen organisations we have in the aviation sector. We intend to go round as a team engaging these organisations by bringing solutions on board during agitation. “Declaring withdrawal of services , protests and other industrial unrest instruments may not achieve the desired results.” Ogbe , however, expressed optimism with the current proposal by the Federal Government to concession some airport terminals saying unions in the industry are engaging with the authorities to get the best model Such a model, he said, must reflect the collective benefits of the country, aviation workers and relevant stakeholders. Ogbe said promised to deliver a team in ATSSSAN , that will ensure the over seventeen organisations in the aviation industry provide work tools for their workers, make the working environment conducive, push for the health of the business and ensure such outfits succeed. The ATSSSAN Presidential aspirant declared : “Our strategy will be engaging the management to ensure there is improvement in the work environment, bring solutions on the table , and collaborate to solve the problems of the industry. “This has become imperative because the numbers are not looking good for the sector, we must avoid stifling the growth of business and ultimately ensure that negotiations start and end on the table.” On the concession of airports, Ogbe said ATSSSAN is working with the Federal Government to ensure the pitfalls of the past are avoided, affirming that with the efforts of the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), the right models will be adopted. He said : “Aviation unions including ATSSSAN and other stakeholders are engaging with the outline business case rolled out by ICRC to ensure good faith is kept , that the models are not skewed. ” We will ensure that issues concerning the financing , the tenure of the concession and the key performance indicators of the affected airports meet acceptable global standards. “We are looking at conversations around the tenure, the volume of investment , the fate of workers, the proponents and terms of engagement. On his mission for ATSSSAN, Ogbe said : “We will train, mentor, and equip our members and leaders with modern tools of negotiation, conflict resolution, and progressive unionism. No member will be left behind, for an enlightened workforce is an unstoppable force. “I say it here clearly and unequivocally: when I assume office as President of ATSSSAN, I shall make it one of my foremost priorities to engage relevant authorities and ensure that all outstanding entitlements are paid to the rightful beneficiaries. Justice delayed must no longer be justice denied.”‘

  The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo, has approved the promotion of 24 Aeronautical Information Management (AIM) staff of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) to  management level.   Out of the 24 personnel 23 were promoted to the position of Deputy General Managers, one was promoted to the position of an Assistant General Manager in a promotion that cut across all departments of the agency.   The promotion has been described as unprecedented in the history of AIS and chart departments of NAMA. Reacting to the promotion, the president of the Aeronautical Information Management Association of Nigeria  Dr. Ibrahim Audu who was also promoted to the position of Deputy General Manager, applauded the Minister of Aviation and NAMA management under the leadership of Engr. Umar Farouk for the approval of 23 officers promotion to Deputy General Managers in AIS and charts and one Assistant General Manager. According to Dr. Audu,  the gesture will further ensure commitment in  safety, regularity and efficiency of the Nigerian airspace. So many associations in NAMA in recent time have praised the existing management and labour robust relationship. The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Mr Festus Keyamo, last week in Abuja during the the annual General Meeting of Air Traffic Controllers, said workers acceptance of Engr Farouk as the Managing Director of NAMA revealed that he did the right thing by appointing him the agency’s boss.