Category: Aviation

CHUKS OKOH, The President of the National Association of Air Traffic Engineers (NAAE), Engr Selzing Miri, has charged the government to provide enabling environment through the provision of working tools for engineers in the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) to ehance their job Speaking at the recently concluded Annual General Meeting of the Lagos chapter of NAAE in Lagos, Engr Miri noted, that the agency was blessed with qualified and experienced air traffic engineers in the system but regretted that lack of working tools have hampered their ingenuity. He said for the engineers to make impact, the rightful tools must be provided to make them have the right frame of mind in thinking and carying their jobs “I want to appeal to our management, in as much as we want to make impact, we are limited with the availability of resources for tools to work. The management has a part to play in ensuring that we are given the rightful environment” Miri noted that while their foreign counterparts do their work with ease as if they were performing magic, as a result of the availability of tools, their counterparts in Nigeria remained handicapped due to lack of working tools Miri also lamented that  the engineers have been crying for operational vehicles for more than eight years and no solutions. He decried a situation  where engineers use motor bikes to go to work on some out stations across the country saying, that the absence of workshop and good working environment has reduced the engineers to a mere fault identifier engineers without solutions to the identified problems. Miri however expressed optimism that with the calibre of the management in place in NAMA led by Engr Umar Farouk, that things will change for the better.

CHUKS OKOH The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) says the agency will not hesitate to suspend or fine international carriers that sell tickets to passengers only to airlift them halfway to their destinations and deport them back to Nigeria. The Authority in a statement signed by Michael Achimugu, Director, Consumer protection and Public Affairs, said it received several complaints about the refusal of boarding/entry at intermediate transit stops to some Nigerians due to Visa/travel restrictions, adding that such is causing significant distress to passengers and tarnishing the reputation of the aviation industry in Nigeria The NCAA frowned at the practices, adding that it is the responsibility of airlines to inform passengers about any potential barriers to their admissibility at their destinations before they commence their travel. ‘’Passengers should not be put in a position where they are denied entry or return to Nigeria only on arrival at intermediate /transit stops. “In line with the provisions of Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations 2023 Part 19.21.1.1, all airlines and their agents shall ensure that passengers are informed of any potential admissibility issues or travel restriction in advance of their departure. Airlines must take appropriate measures to screen and provide passengers with accurate, up-to-date information regarding their travel documents and visa requirements before issuing a ticket and proceeding to board them. “In light of this, the NCAA informs all international airlines operating in Nigeria that the Authority will no longer tolerate these occurrences. Effective immediately, any airline found to be engaged in such practices would be subject to regulatory action, including but not limited to fines, suspension of flight operations or other measures deemed appropriate.”, it stated. The NCAA said it expects the cooperation of all airlines in maintaining the integrity and professionalism of the aviation industry, as well as ensuring the well-being of Nigerian passengers

CHUKS OKOH The Domestic Airports Cargo Agents Association (DACAA) has called for establishment of cargo processing centres in all airports in Nigeria to boost economic growth. The association’s Acting Chairman, Board of Trusties, Mr John Ekeanya, made the call at the 21st aanniversary celebrations of the association/inauguration of the association’s new executives in Lagos. According to Ekeanya, the contributions of members of the association is vital because the association has presence at all airports across the country. “We are a key player in the medium scale enterprises sector and offer employment to numerous Nigerians. “Our contributions to the nation’s gross domestic products are obvious. We therefore, call on policymakers to incorporate our input. “Cargo processing and storage structures in all airports should be considered, including but not limited to availability of storage facilities, cold rooms, weighing equipment, and screening machines. “We call on the Federal Government, through the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, to consider domestic cargo handlers in Nigeria’s robust aviation blueprint,” he said. In his inaugural speech, the newly-elected President of DACAA, Mr Godwin Obasuyi, called on the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to provide the association a site for its permanent site. He said: “We have contributed immensely to the labour force. We engage in essential services, and our cargo carriage per week is between 70 to 80 tonnes. “This kind of revenue, as port charges, should not be neglected by the authorities. We hereby call on FAAN authorities and other aviation stakeholders to come to our aid by providing a conducive permanent place for our operations,” he said. Comrade Ade Ijala, the General Secretary of DACAA, said that handling frozen goods had been a challenge to members of the association. He urged FAAN authorities to consider setting up a cold storage facility for ease of handling perishable cargoes. “We handle frozen foods and medicals that needed to be frozen, and we do not have a storage facility. That is the area we are lagging behind. “When it comes to physical handling, we are very okay,” he said.

CHUKS OKOH, After the disagreement between Green Africa and it’s lessors, the air line has announced the acquisition of its very first owned aircraft. The incoming aircraft, an ATR 72-500 with manufacturer’s serial number 852 and registration mark 5N-GAB, is expected to enter into service shortly after customary regulatory approvals. According Omolara Kehinde, brand marketing Green Africa, Access Bank, one of the largest banks in the country has provided a Naira debt facility to partly fund the aircraft acquisition. Babawande  Afolabi, Founder & CEO of Green Africa, said: “We are pleased to acquire  our very first aircraft, another significant milestone for Green Africa. This in coming aircraft will be pivotal as we thoughtfully navigate the next phase of our journey to bring safe, affordable and reliable air travel to a broader group of customers in the region.” Roosevelt Ogbonna, Managing Director / CEO of Access Bank, commented: “As one  Of the largest and leading financial institutions on the continent, we at Access Bank take special pride in supporting young businesses that have the potential to redefine their industries and act as major catalysts for positive impact in their local market and on the continent at large. We are impressed with the Green Africa story and excited about the brand’s future trajectory. We are delighted to support the acquisition of Green Africa’s very first owned aircraft.” Green Africa was launched against the backdrop of COVID-19 and entered revenue service in 2021. Green Africa has since established a strong presence in the domestic market  as one of the most affordable and punctual airlines in the industry.

CHUKS OKOH The DG of NCAA Capt Chris Najomo has commended the NIGAV award as an industry performance watchdog and praised the creativity of the organizer for designing such a programme that promotes healthy competition among the airlines at the level of the cabin crew. The DG, who indicated that he was at some time of his carrier as a pilot awarded best pilot of the year by a cabin crew association in USA and also recall leading the Arik Team to clinch the as the ‘Best Cabin Crew Of The Year 2019’ at the 10th Nigeria Aviation (NIGAV) Award, and such gesture and acknowledgement of effort we made for industry progress is a motivation to continue striving for the best. He advised the current King and Queen of the air to remain steadfast even after their reign to continue to act as Nigeria aviation ambassador of best practices and promised that the agency will continue to support NIGAV award and NQKA as agent of industry promotion and strategic partner to NCAA. Commenting on the visit, Mr Fortune Idu, who is the founder of Award and Chairman of the NIGAV Centre stated that all necessary arrangements have been made to ensure a hitch-free event on April 11, 2025, at 2 p.m. at the NIGAV Expo Centre at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos. He remarked that Capt. Chris Najomo has a warm personality and a good disposition for collaboration, and his support for innovative initiative is very positive and inspiring. According to him, NCAA has promised to support the CSR initiative of the coming NKQA and will use them as the face of the aviation community interface. Mr. Idu, said over 50 awards will be presented at the event. The Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, is expected to lead aviation parastatal chiefs and other stakeholders to this highest and most prestigious aviation sector award in Nigeria. He remarked that most of the guests and sponsors have confirmed their participation. The theme of this year’ ‘s NIGAV awards is ‘Foundation for Accelerated Aviation Growth” (FAAG), This was adopted to highlight the achievements of the current administration over the past year in establishing the groundwork necessary for positive and sustainable growth in the aviation business. Mr. Idu stated that the Nigeria Aviation (NIGAV) Awards will honour over 40 industry recipients, including the Minister himself, who will be recognised as the Aviation Personality of the Year, underscoring the stability and focused development Mr. Festus Keyamo has brought to the aviation sector during his tenure. Also to be awarded are the Airline CEO of the Year, Aviation Agency CEO of the Year, Aviation Investor of the Year, Unsung Heroes, Lifetime Achievement Award, and various designated awards for numerous airports, airlines, and service providers.   Mr. Idu noted that the past year has been significant for reviewing projects, programs, and processes aimed at driving aviation, and the award reflects various actions promoting growth. He also remarked that a new King and Queen of the Air will be crowned at this year’s event, in keeping with the tradition of the NIGAV Awards. Fourteen contestants have been shortlisted for the competition, representing major airlines that have endorsed capable cabin crew members to participate. The event fosters healthy competition among airlines and promotes best practices. The winners will receive two million naira and will undertake a one-year CSR activity endorsed by the NCAA.

CHUKS OKOH, The Domestic Airports Cargo Agents Association (DACAA) has lamented that despite paying heavy port charges and contributing to the economy, the association has been neglected by the airport authorities. This is just as the association set to mark its 21st anniversary and inaugurate its new executives on April 2, 2025. The association has been in existence for over two decades, playing a vital role in the domestic cargo industry. In an exclusive interview, the outgoing General Secretary, Mr. Ade Ijale, spoke about the challenges the association has faced over the years, particularly with regards to accommodation and storage facilities. “We have been moving from space to space, from Bicourtney MMA 2, and the challenges have been enormous. We have written several letters, appeared in person, and met with the authority, but they keep telling us that it will take five years. We have been operating without a permanent place to call our own,” he said. Mr. Ijale also highlighted the importance of the association’s role in the economy, stating that they contribute to employment and play a vital role in the movement of goods. He expressed hope that the new executives will be able to address the challenges facing the association and work towards finding a permanent solution. The association has over 165 member companies, with a minimum of 1,000 personnel. Mr. Ijale revealed that the association has been working towards increasing its membership and providing training and retraining for its personnel to overcome the challenges of handling dangerous goods. On the forthcoming anniversary celebration and inauguration ceremony, the DACAA general secretary said, the purpose is to bring together airport authorities, security agencies, and other stakeholders to raise awareness about the importance of the association’s role in the domestic cargo industry. The event will also provide an opportunity for the association to plead with the airport authorities and the Nigerian government to provide a permanent space for the association to operate. “We want to expose all of this and use this anniversary to plead for the airport authorities in particular, and the Nigerian government, to see how they will be able to come to our aid. We need a space. We need an accommodation. If we have a place to operate, better than here, we will not have all those challenges,” Mr. Ijale said. The association has also been working towards increasing its revenue generation, with a levy collected from individual members. Mr. Ijale revealed that the association has been relying on individual support and donations to cater for its needs. The anniversary celebration and inauguration ceremony is expected to be a significant event in the history of the association, marking a new chapter in its journey towards finding a permanent solution to its challenges and continuing to play a vital role in the domestic cargo industry. Mr. Godwin Obasuyi, the newly elected President of the DACAA, pledged to focus on addressing pressing challenges and promoting unity among members. “We are just coming onboard. There are a lot of issues on ground that we are planning to enhance,” he stated. Among the key concerns to be handled by the president are accommodation challenges and individual member-related issues. He also emphasized the need for stronger collaboration with airport agencies. “We are looking at meeting some of the heads of agencies at the airport, which we feel can assist us,” Obasuyi explained, indicating a strategic approach to finding solutions. A central theme of his address was the importance of fostering unity within the association. “As an individual in the association, we also want to look at how we will be able to bring ourselves together, that unanimous, to hold on to ourselves. We are having an individual problem here. That is the truth. I don’t want to shy away from that,” he admitted, addressing internal divisions directly. Obasuyi also candidly described the recent election period as highly contentious. “During the period of election, it was like a war zone, not with guns or cutlasses,” he remarked, underscoring the intensity of the process.

CHUKS OKOH Air Traffic Engineers in the country have been commended for individual and collective efforts in ensuring that communication and navigational equipment and infrastructure placed under their care are functioning optimally at all times. Engr.Therese Ihenachor, director Safety Electronics and  Engineering Services (DSEES), who made the commendation at the Annual General Meeting of National Association of Air Traffic Engineers Lagos chapter, said the chapter’s age-long tradition of organizing and holding local AGMs was commendable as it  brought ATSEPs in the chapter together to interact, share ideas and socialise adding that AGMs were essential for appraisal of past events and making projections for the future, and encouraged them to sustain the progressive spirit. Represented by Engr Ishaya Dung, general manager workshop, Engr Inhenacho, assured them that NAMA management under the dynamic leadership of Engr. Ahmed Umar Farouk, FNSE will continue to do her best in providing adequate spares, tools and training to support their efforts. She urged them to keep up the good work and improve on areas of deficiencies in order to consolidate on the gains in providing safe, economic and expeditious air navigation. According to her, the theme ‘The ATSEP Mindset for Impact’ was apt adding that their work doer not just keep the lights on, but keeps the skies safe, the industry moving, and the world connected. Engr Ihenachor noted that Air Traffic Safety Electronics Personnel (ATSEP) played a critical role in ensuring the safety, efficiency, and reliability of global aviation systems adding that their mindset, the attitude, approach and  outlook they provide to their work was fundamental in achieving maximum impact in their professional contributions. “Embracing a safety-first mindset means prioritizing proactive maintenance, risk assessment, and compliance with stringent regulatory standards. This commitment ensures that aviation infrastructure remains robust and dependable” She reminded the engineers that ATSEP mindset for impact was a blend of technical expertise, ethical responsibility, and a dedication to growth noting that by embracing these principles, ATSEP professionals not only ensure safe skies but also lead the way in shaping the future of aviation. Also in his welcome address, the Lagos State cpater Chairman, Engr Bolaji Ahmed, expressed gratitude to the participants for their dedication and  continued support. Ahmed said “As we gather here today, we are reminded of the journey we’ve undertaken together, the challenges we’ve faced, the milestones we’ve achieved and the shared commitment to promoting our Association as well being Air Navigation service Providers” He said the dedication and passion of  engineering community have been the the driving force for what they have accomplished so far.He noted that there has achieved high success rate of both foreign and local training, and enviable welfare packages. “This event marks another chapter in our ongoing pursuit of excellence,innovation and collaboration. Over the course of this event, we will have the opportunity to share ideas, discuss pressing issues and explore new ways to strengthen our collective impact” Meanwhile, NAAE Lagos State chapter has elected new executives to run the affairs of the Association. They include, ATSEP Bolaji Ahmed, Chairman ATSEP Nneka Ezike, Vice Chairman ATSEP Lilian Uzodiagu,  Secretary ATSEP Mary Adeyeye, Financial Secretary , ATSEP Hope Agala, Treasurer and ATSEP Joy Ijehon – Public Relations Officer

    CHUKS OKOH The Regional Manager, South East Airports and Manager of Akanu Ibiam International Airport (AIIA), Enugu, Mr. Hilary Umunna says the new airline, Enugu Air, which was received Friday at the airport is expected to significantly boost passengers traffic, increase revenue generation for both the Federal and State and create job opportunities within the aviation ecosystem. Umunna speaking on the expectations of the new airline, declares”We anticipate positive economic ripple effects for Enugu State and the Southeast region, fostering trade, tourism, and business growth. One of FAAN’s goals is to sustain and expand partnerships that will make Enugu a strategic aviation hub.” Umunna who had worked with Cross River State Government towards emergence of Cally Air when he was Calabar Airport Manager, said in an interview that “AIIA Enugu has taken several steps to ensure that most of the ICAO operational and regulatory requirements are met. This includes infrastructure enhancements, improved ground handling services, security reinforcements and compliance with international safety and operational standards. Additionally, we have streamlined coordination between all stakeholders to facilitate smooth operations for the airline.” He expressed excitement to welcome Enugu Air to Akanu Ibiam International Airport saying its presence will enhance connectivity, boosts economic activities, and align with their vision of making Enugu the preferred aviation hub for the south east. “AIIA Enugu is committed to ensuring a seamless and efficient operation for the airline and its passengers,” he said.

CHUKS OKOH Finchglow Travels, a prominent Nigerian travel consolidator, has been honoured with the Agency of the Year in the Platinum Category award, alongside a Certificate of Appreciation, at the recent Air France-KLM-Delta Celebration in Lagos. The recognition reaffirms Finchglow Travels’ sustained performance and its significant contributions to travel sales and industry partnerships, as confirmed by Temilade Adu, Public Relations Manager, Finchglow Holdings Manager for Finchglow Holdings. Olumide Owolabi, Country Sales Manager for Air France-KLM, acknowledged Finchglow Travels’ consistent excellence and its role in the airline’s success in Nigeria, reiterating the company’s commitment to customer satisfaction and operational efficiency. The Managing Director of Finchglow Travels, Mr. Ezekiel Ikotun stressed the award as a reflection of the company’s dedication to innovation, service excellence, and industry collaboration, noting the importance of their partnership with Air France-KLM-Delta in providing seamless travel experiences. Head of Corporate Sales at Finchglow Travels, Aderinsola Desalu, attributed the award to the team’s dedication and expertise, reinforcing their commitment to delivering tailored travel solutions and strengthening industry partnerships. The award precedes the live edition of PartnerPlus Connect in Lagos, an event designed to address evolving industry trends, challenges, and opportunities with the theme “Navigating Travel Industry Shifts.” This event will bring together key stakeholders to explore strategies for adaptation and growth in the dynamic travel landscape, covering topics from changing consumer behaviors to airline innovations and the pivotal role of partnerships.

CHUKS OKOH Aviation unions in the country have given the management of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) seven days ultimatum within which a clear work protocols that are in tandem with global best practices are applied in their working environment or face industrial action They had earlier given the management 21 day ultimatum which expired yesterday Monday, demanding the transfer of Nigeria Customs officers at the the cargo sector of the Murtala Muhammed Airport following the assault on the Director of Aviation Security In a statement Monday by the general secretary  Comrade Ocheme Aba of NUATE Comrade Frances Akinjole of ATSSSAN Comrade Abdul Rasaq Saidu of ANAP warned that workers will down tools next Monday 31st March should FAAN management fail to act. “Consequential sanctions are in place which guarantees the safety and human rights of FAAN staff, we shall direct all the workers to withdraw from the airports with effect from 31st March, 2025 pending when such protocols are established. The recent assault on  less a personality as the Director of Aviation security of FAAN is one too many which leaves a taste too bitter to swallow” “It is our sincere hope that our demand in the above respect is well met to avoid the industrial conflagration that will ensue in the absence acceptable remedial actions” The unions said all branches and state councils throughout Nigeria have been directed to commence mobilization of all staff in the above respect. The unions regretted that the letter dated 7th of March, 2025 has received no response, nor was  there any visible sign of remedial actions as demanded. “This is against the background of the expiration of the ultimatum today (21st March, 2025). Considering the enormity and frequency of physical and psychological assault on the staff and management personnel of FAAN of which there is no end in sight” “We are compelled to inform the Management of the unwavering determination of our Unions to cause the establishment of a clear framework of mutual respect among FAAN staff and the security agencies operating at the airports”