Category: Aviation

CHUKS OKOH, It was an evening of pride and recognition at the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria, as the graduating class of Aeronautical Operators Course AO32 celebrated their achievements and honoured distinguished aviation leaders, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Engineer Ahmed Umar Farouk, and the Director of Air Traffic Services (DATS), Mr. John Tayo.   The colourful graduation and award ceremony, held last week, drew top aviation professionals, instructors, and dignitaries who gathered to celebrate academic excellence, leadership, and service to the nation’s airspace system.   Engineer Ahmed Umar Farouk, NAMA’s Managing Director, received a distinguished award for his visionary leadership and commitment to advancing Nigeria’s air navigation services.   The organisers praised his role in driving innovation, improving airspace safety, and strengthening collaboration between NAMA and training institutions like NCAT. In his remarks, Farouk expressed gratitude to NCAT for the honour and commended the graduating class for their resilience and professionalism. “This recognition reflects our shared mission — to sustain excellence in air navigation and ensure safer skies for Nigeria and beyond,” he said.   Similarly, Mr. John Tayo, Director of Air Traffic Services, was honoured for his exemplary leadership and dedication to enhancing air traffic management nationwide.   His efforts in capacity building, operational efficiency, and safety oversight were acknowledged as pivotal to the growth of Nigeria’s airspace operations.   The highlight of the event was the graduation of the AO32 class, who successfully completed rigorous academic and practical training in Aeronautical Operations (Aeronautical Communications) within the period of 44 weeks.   The success of the class underscores NCAT’s pivotal role in grooming world-class professionals for the aviation sector.   The ceremony reaffirmed the enduring partnership between NAMA and NCAT in promoting excellence, innovation, and safety across Nigeria’s aviation industry. The NACAN President in his comments thanked the MD/CE, Engr. Farouk for his optimism and commitment to the staff welfare and course sponsorship.   He also appreciated the Rector and the Dean ATS/COMM school for their resilience to ensure the cadets acquired the professional knowledge and skills required for the Aeronautical Communications operations.   Other awardees includes the Rector/CE, NCAT, Dr. Danjuma Adamu Ismail, Dean ATS/COMM school, Alh. Nasiru Muazu, HOD, Aeronautical Communications, NCAT, Sunday Ikuje, GM, Aerocomms, NAMA Mr. Danjuma Usman Bawa, NACAN President, Rabiu Muhammad Sani, Comms Technical Standards and Evaluation Officer, Hadi Mohammed, and ASM Zaria Aerodrome, Mr Ajiga Bello. Moreover, the NACAN leadership presented awards to the class best overall, the second, the third and the best behaved participants.

  CHUKS OKOH The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has embarked on an extensive infrastructural revolution to strengthen operational efficiency, enhance safety, and empower the workforce that safeguards Nigeria’s skies. Speaking at the 54th Annual General Meeting of the Nigerian Air Traffic Controllers’ Association (NATCA) in Abuja, Managing Director and Chief Executive, Engineer Ahmed Umar Farouk, said the initiative represents the most ambitious transformation in the agency’s history, backed by tens of billions of naira in capital investment. “Under my leadership, NAMA has embarked on the most ambitious infrastructural revolution in its recent history,” Farouk declared. He explained that the agency has renovated and modernised Control Towers at 11 critical stations, including Abuja, Kano, and Port Harcourt. In addition, NAMA has completely overhauled administrative and technical buildings nationwide, from its Lagos headquarters to regional stations in Bauchi, Sokoto, and Benin, ensuring that personnel operate in safe, modern, and efficient environments. Farouk noted that the ongoing infrastructural revolution also includes securing critical assets through perimeter fencing at VOR and TRACON sites, guaranteeing uninterrupted power through the installation of hundreds of generators, solar hybrid systems, and Automatic Mains Failure (AMF) panels, as well as providing advanced UPS units for power stability. He added that the agency has procured vital operational tools such as new VHF radios, upgraded Instrument Landing System/Distance Measuring Equipment (ILS/DME), and new operational vehicles. These acquisitions, he said, have strengthened NAMA’s communication, navigation, and surveillance capacity while ensuring the highest level of safety across Nigerian airspace. “This infrastructural revolution is a clear signal of our commitment to giving you the world-class tools and facilities you deserve to perform your duties effectively,” he affirmed. Farouk stated that beyond infrastructure, NAMA’s priority remains its people the air traffic controllers and technical experts who ensure daily safety and efficiency in the skies. He declared 2025 as the Year of Capacity Building at NAMA, revealing that the agency trained 230 senior managers overseas, including 110 Air Traffic Controllers, marking the largest such exercise since the agency’s creation. Domestically, nearly 90 percent of operational, technical, and contract staff underwent local training and workshops — the highest figure in 25 years. According to him, this human capacity drive is the human side of the infrastructural revolution, ensuring that personnel can fully utilise the modern tools and facilities now at their disposal. To achieve this, NAMA increased its training budget by 78 percent, a deliberate investment in professional excellence and long-term safety. “A modern control tower is just a shell without a skilled, confident, and motivated controller inside it,” Farouk emphasised. “The Human Edge must be sharpened continuously.” On welfare, Farouk disclosed that NAMA is awaiting approval of a new Conditions of Service (COS) document from the National Salaries and Wages Commission, which will significantly enhance staff remuneration and welfare. Its implementation, he said, will further boost productivity and morale across all NAMA divisions. He also used the opportunity to appeal to the Federal Government to review the 30–50 percent deductions at source from NAMA’s internally generated revenue, describing the policy as a major constraint to sustaining its infrastructural revolution. “If allowed to reinvest our full revenue, NAMA will expand this infrastructural revolution and further upgrade Nigeria’s airspace technology, safety, and human capital,” he stated. Farouk commended NATCA for its achievements, including greater international representation within the International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers’ Associations (IFATCA) and the successful hosting of the IFATCA AFM Executive Council Meeting in Nigeria. He also appreciated Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, and Permanent Secretary, Dr. Ibrahim Kana, for their continued leadership and support, which have made NAMA’s ongoing infrastructural revolution possible. “Your professionalism and commitment to safety are the true bedrock of Nigerian aviation,” Farouk said. “You are the custodians of our skies, and we are committed to being the custodians of your growth.” The 54th NATCA AGM, themed “The Human Edge: Capacity Building in the Next Generation Air Traffic Management,” reaffirmed the crucial link between infrastructure, human capacity, and safety in Nigeria’s aviation industry.  

CHUKS OKOH The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo says the retirement age of Air Traffic Controllers in the country will be reviewed by the government Speaking while declaring open the 54th annual gerenal meeting of the Nigerian Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) in Abuja, Mr Keyamo said the ministry will work with the relevant authorities to ensure a successful review Describing NATCA as the ‘Apple of the eye of Aviation’ Keyamo assured them of the necessary support needed to make them function effectively as they are incharge of the safety of the skies. “I listened to his speech on the age of retirement of Air Traffic Controllers, I think am convinced it is something I can take up” He noted that if pilots can fly at the age of 65 years, there is no need that the Air Traffic Communicators will not push to 65 years Keyamo assumed them that he will sit with the Permanent Secretary in the ministry to carefully study it and get approval for the upward review. He noted that the County is short of Air Traffic Controllers in the country and there was need to bridge the gap The Air Traffic controllers are pushing for 65 years as retirement age for their personnel. In his welcome address, the President of NATCA, Mr Amos Edino revealed that the wave of retirements and the migration of skilled professionals abroad (the “Japa” trend), and inter-agency transfers driven by the search for better opportunities have greatly affected their performance According to him, current projections indicate that if decisive measures are not taken, by 2030, despite the expected growth in national aviation activities, the Air Traffic Controller workforce could decline sharply, potentially widening the manpower gap by up to 70%. He then called for a review and upward adjustment of the retirement age for Air Traffic Controllers to 65 years — aligning with other critical professions. He remarked that over 150 controllers received international training in PBN, CPDLC, OJTI, UA Fundamentals, and UTM Airspace Integration, search and rescue among others Edino also revealed that over 300 controllers benefited from the first-ever domestic training programs initiated in NAMA. He stated that the long-awaited salary adjustment for Air Traffic Controllers in NAMA was signed in August 2025 and commenced implementation in September. “This landmark achievement should, in due course, be extended to other agencies housing Air Traffic Controllers, ensuring equity and uniform recognition of our professional value across the aviation sector” he said Edino further revealed that the NAMA Management through the Directorate of Air Traffic Services (DATS), commenced distribution of secured warm clothing for Air Traffic Controllers. He also highlighted the challenges faced by Air Traffic Controllers with persistent manpower shortages, a challenge he remarked, continued to impact the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of air navigation services The 54th NATCA AGM had its theme ‘The Human Edge : Capacity Building in the Next Generation Air Traffic Management’

    CHUKS OKOH, As the world marks the air traffic controllers day, the Nigeria Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) has again re-echoed challenges facing their smooth operations in the country President of NATCA, Mr Amos Edino, while addressing the media on the world air traffic controllers’ day in Lagos, said inadequate infrastructure investment over many years, poor maintenance of the existing airport infrastructure, obsolete plants, equipment and facilities across the aviation sector  were some of the challenges facing the smooth operations of their job. Other challenges according Edino include, maintaining operational continuity and operational resilience, integrating emerging technologies adding that the world of aviation is rapidly changing with the emergence of new technology. According to NATCA, the rapid rise in commercial flights, private jets and cargo aircraft has put huge pressure on air traffic services. Edino, noted that in 2024, domestic Airlines alone operated about 80,000 flights with international airlines operated about 15,000 flights saying it shows that the total annual flight numbers are substantially high. The NATCA boss, noted that Drones (UAVs), Urban air mobility (UAM) vehicles and increasingly automated navigation systems are adding new layers of complexity to already busy skies while staffing, training, and human factors,  ageing technical human resources in aviation, air traffic controllers,  inadequate numbers of technical staff to meet the set industry manning standard condition of service requires attention . Edino disclosed that training, and retraining experienced air traffic controllers remain constant challenge with issues that affect performance, such as fatigue, stress and heavy workloads, which can pose serious risks in such a high-pressure environment. On financing, Inadequate funding from the government to operate, maintain and modernize aviation infrastructure, NATCA  calls for upgrade infrastructure, modernised air traffic control systems, navigation facilities to enhance operational efficiency. Edino further called for the implementation of advanced communication systems VHF for extended coverage and introduce the data links for faster more accurate exchange of flight information while seeking for  more developed efficient and cost -effective training programs and maintain high standards of safety and proficiency. According to him, there is need to improve job satisfaction, such as competitive salaries, career development opportunities, and supportive work environments, foster a stronger safety culture to prioritise safety not just as a regulatory requirement but as a fundamental operational values, with a focus on preemptive  risk managements and continuous improvement . Edino appreciated the management of NAMA, NCAA, NCAT, NSIB, FAAN and the ministry of aviation and aerospace development led by the minister Barr. Festus Keyamo for their support in advancing Nigeria’s aviation sector. The world Air Traffic controllers day is celebrated on the 20th October to honour the men and women who work to ensure air travel is safe and efficient, and to recognize the founding of the international federation of air traffic controllers’ association (IFATCA) on October 20th , 1961. In Nigeria, Air traffic controllers support flight across 32 airport, airstrips and overflight within the kano Flight information region (FIR), hence the continues increase in traffic volume, more workload for ATC. “In Nigeria, our dedicated professionals manage average of over 15 million passengers annually. The passenger figures provide a good estimate of air traffic which is the most commonly reported metric. This includes a mix of of domestic and international travel through Nigeria Airports” Thee theme of this year’s celebration is ‘The Human Edge: Capacity Building in the Next Generation Air Traffic Management’

Leadership, Responsibility, By Tunde Moshood In every civilized democracy, criticism is an essential ingredient of progress — but when it becomes reckless, baseless, and politically motivated, it threatens not just the integrity of institutions but also public confidence in them. This is why the recent statement by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, representing Abia North Senatorial District, alleging that “pilots and cabin crew in Nigeria are involved in substance abuse” cannot go unaddressed. The Senator, in what appeared to be a desperate bid for media attention or perhaps an attempt to score cheap political points, made a sweeping, unsubstantiated remark on the floor of the Senate, claiming that aviation authorities are not conducting proper checks. Such comments are not only reckless — they are dangerous. They have the potential to sow panic among the traveling public and undermine the painstaking progress being recorded in Nigeria’s aviation industry under the current leadership. It is one thing to call for higher standards; it is another to make wild claims without a shred of evidence. Aviation is one of the most regulated sectors globally, governed by strict compliance protocols and international safety benchmarks. Pilots, cabin crew, and all licensed aviation professionals in Nigeria are routinely subjected to rigorous medical, psychological, and substance tests, as mandated by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) in accordance with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards. To insinuate otherwise, without factual basis, is to insult the thousands of disciplined Nigerian aviators who dedicate their lives daily to ensuring that passengers arrive safely at their destinations. Criticism, when constructive, drives improvement. But destructive insinuations — particularly from an elder statesman and former governor — only serve to demoralize, destabilize, and distort public trust. An Elder Statesman should build, not break. Senator Kalu, a man of considerable political experience, ought to know better. With the calibre of his personality — a former governor, businessman, and current lawmaker — one would expect that his contributions to national discourse would be measured, informed, and nation-building in tone. Ironically, this is not the first time the Senator has thrown verbal stones at the aviation sector. But this time, his words sting more deeply because they attempt to paint an entire industry — one that employs tens of thousands of Nigerians and drives economic growth — in a dark and untrue light. It begs the question: is this criticism borne out of genuine concern or the lingering resentment of a failed aviation enterprise? A Look Back: The Rise and Fall of Slok Air For those who may not know, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu once had an airline — Slok Air, established in 1996. Interestingly, though founded with Nigerian resources, the airline’s operational hub was located in Banjul International Airport, The Gambia, not Nigeria. Slok Air began operations with six Boeing 737-200 aircraft and served destinations across West Africa — Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Mali, Senegal, and Sierra Leone — conspicuously excluding Nigeria. By late 2008, however, the airline had grounded operations amid financial difficulties, lawsuits, and management crises. It is therefore not misplaced to suggest that Senator Kalu’s bitterness toward Nigeria’s growing aviation system may be rooted in nostalgia for an era when his own aviation ambition could not take flight. Under the current leadership of the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON, Nigeria’s aviation industry has witnessed a new wave of professionalism, discipline, and reform. The Minister’s no-nonsense approach and legal precision have restored order and credibility to an industry once plagued by inefficiency and complacency. Among his notable achievements are: Implementation of the IDERA Framework: Strengthening Nigeria’s compliance with international aircraft leasing and financing standards, thereby improving investor confidence and making it easier for local operators to acquire and retain aircraft. Negotiation of new Bilateral Air Service Agreements (BASAs): Ensuring reciprocal benefits for Nigerian airlines and expanding connectivity between Nigeria and key global markets. Consumer Protection Initiatives: Launching a simplified Consumer Protection Portal under the NCAA, enhancing transparency, and ensuring passengers’ rights are respected. Infrastructure Modernization: Overseeing upgrades at major airports, including the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, without compromising operational safety or passenger experience. Reinforcing Regulatory Oversight: Ensuring that all aviation agencies — NCAA, FAAN, NAMA, NSIB, and NiMET and others — align under a unified performance-driven vision. These are not the hallmarks of a system plagued by negligence or substance abuse, but rather of one being rebuilt on integrity and international best practice. Conclusion: Leadership Requires Restraint The aviation sector is one of the most sensitive in any country — where a single careless statement can ripple through public confidence and international perception. Senator Orji Uzor Kalu’s recent comments are not only unfounded but unbecoming of a statesman who should be guiding, not goading, a critical national industry. Nigeria’s aviation has come too far, under too much scrutiny, and with too much effort from dedicated professionals, to be discredited by political sensationalism. If anything, leaders of influence like Senator Kalu should lend their voices to strengthening, not slandering, the system. As the Honourable Minister, Festus Keyamo, SAN, continues to drive reforms, restore order, and position Nigeria as a regional aviation hub, what the industry needs is encouragement — not careless words that could ground confidence. Because when leadership speaks, the nation listens. And when leaders mis-speak, the nation trembles. Tunde Moshood is the Special Adviser On Media and Communications to the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development

  CHUKS OKOH 7Star Global Hangar Ltd has achieved another significant milestone in its regional expansion strategy with the official approval granted by the National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC) of the Republic of the Congo (Congo-Brazzaville) to perform base maintenance inspection services on TN-registered aircraft. This approval positions 7Star Global Hangar Ltd as a recognized Approved Maintenance Organisation for operators from the Republic of the Congo, strengthening bilateral aviation collaboration between Nigeria and Congo-Brazzaville. The authorization allows the company to undertake heavy maintenance checks, structural inspections, and other base-level engineering services for aircraft registered under the Congolese civil registry. Speaking on the development, Engr. Isaac Balami, CEO of 7Star Global Hangar Ltd, described the approval as “a testament to our consistent pursuit of excellence, safety, and compliance with international aviation standards.” He added that the certification underscores the company’s growing reputation as a Pan-African MRO hub, serving operators across Central and West Africa. With this new certification, 7Star Global Hangar Ltd continues to expand its maintenance capabilities and reinforce its commitment to advancing Africa’s aviation maintenance ecosystem through quality service, safety integrity, and regional partnership. About 7Star Global Hangar Ltd:7Star Global Hangar Ltd is Nigeria’s leading independent aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) organization, headquartered in Lagos. The company provides a full range of maintenance services, including line and base checks, modifications, and component support, in compliance with NCAA and international aviation standards.

CHUKS OKOH   Prominent Nigerian aviation professional and former President of the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE), Engr. Isaac Balami, has congratulated Captain Bunmi Gindeh on his election as the new President of NAAPE, describing him as a seasoned professional who will elevate the association to unprecedented heights. Captain Gindeh, who serves at the National Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), emerged victorious in the keenly contested election held on Friday, September 27th in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, polling 51 votes to defeat his rival, Francis Igwe, an aircraft engineer with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), who garnered 17 votes. In his congratulatory message, Balami, who is the CEO of 7Star Global Hangar, a leading aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility in West and Central Africa, expressed confidence in the new leadership. The two aviation professionals share a history that dates back to Balami’s tenure as NAAPE President, when Captain Gindeh served as the Branch Chairman of NAAPE at Aero Contractors. “Captain Bunmi Gindeh is a great man who loves aviation so much. He is a seasoned Captain and has paid his dues in the aviation industry. I have no doubt that Bunmi will take NAAPE to the next level, surpassing its current status. And I want to assure Bunmi that he has my full support and I’m available to support at any level,” Balami stated. The APC chieftain and founder of Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management (IBUAM), Nigeria’s first specialized aeronautics university, went further to offer strategic counsel to the new NAAPE boss. He encouraged Captain Gindeh to prioritize professionalism and focus on building the reputation of Nigerian pilots and engineers not just within Nigeria but across the African continent. Balami also advised the new leadership to strengthen NAAPE’s local foundations while simultaneously reaching out to foreign aviation bodies to create partnerships that would benefit Nigerian aviation professionals. This recommendation aligns with the global nature of the aviation industry, where international collaboration and standardization remain critical to professional development and career mobility. The election also saw Mudi Muhammad, an aircraft engineer at Arik Air, emerge as the national deputy president unopposed, while Adewale Adenugba secured a second term as first trustee. Other elected officials include Edwin Udoh as Financial Secretary, Blessing Ahmadu as Publicity Secretary, and Michael Nicholas as Second Trustee. In his acceptance speech, Captain Gindeh praised the outgoing administration led by Abednego Galadima, particularly commending the establishment of a training institute. The new president outlined his vision for the association, emphasizing member welfare, standardized contracts across the industry, safety advocacy, and upgrading the secretariat to meet modern standards. Balami, who is fondly remembered as “Presido” during his tenure as NAAPE President, has remained a towering figure in Nigerian aviation. His 7Star Global Hangar facility has positioned Nigeria as a regional hub for aircraft maintenance in West and Central Africa, while his university project, which recently received presidential approval from President Bola Tinubu after a four-year wait, represents a significant milestone in aviation education on the continent. The prominent aviation engineer’s endorsement carries considerable weight within the industry, given his track record of leadership and his continued influence in shaping Nigeria’s aviation sector. His willingness to support Captain Gindeh signals a continuity of vision and purpose within NAAPE’s leadership transition. With Balami’s mentorship and the strong mandate from the election, Captain Gindeh appears well-positioned to write a new chapter in the history of Nigeria’s most prominent aviation union. As the aviation sector continues to recover from pandemic-era challenges and works toward meeting international standards, the collaboration between established leaders like Balami and emerging voices like Gindeh could prove instrumental in advancing the interests of Nigerian aviation professionals both at home and abroad.

  CHUKS OKOH Some workers of the operations department of the directorate of operations of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) are spending eight years in one station without transfer This, investigation revealed, is affecting other staff of the operations department from moving round other airports across the country as some of them have spent years in their assigned stations Some have been terminal managers for eight years and they have not been moved out while others have spent five years In Abuja, the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, the head of department operations, has spent eight years. Our correspondent gathered that the situation is not different in Kaduna, Enugu and other airports where these staff have spent between three and seven years. Where other departments like Aviation security, fire and safety are periodically moving their personnel round airports across the country, the operations department has remained stagnant, a development described as unproductive and denying others the opportunity to excel in their field. The situation is becoming worrisome as some are not given the opportunity to exhibit their professional proficiency making them look inferior before their favoured colleagues. Majority of the women in operations are the most affected staff that have not been moved from one location to other for a very long time inspite of the fact that in operations there is no woman. Anonymous stakeholder told our correspondent that the usefulness of over stayed personnel in a place does not make any meaning to the system “Any performing manager should be promoted and moved up and allow others to climb than to keep someone in an airport for five to eight years. You remain HOD operations for more than five years, duty officers in a station for five years” It was gathered that a particular HOD in one of the airports has been  there since on level 14 and still there as HOD  approaching level 16. It will be recalled that their counterparts in other departments like Aviation security were being moved from one airport to the other unlike operations where everyone is regarded as man. Reacting to the continuous stay put in a place for years, the Secretary General of the Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals, Comrade AbdulRasaq Saidu, said transfer is inevitable as a civil servant adding that staying long in a particular station is not good for the system Saidu traced the non movement of personnel from one station to  another to lack of political will on the part of the management and political interference from the political class The ANAP scribe noted that the staff were moved round the airports before now saying that it is not good for the system as it does not give room for learning He queried how such staff that has stayed years in one station bring his expertise to others. “At least when you are three years in a place, you must have an impact. Then go to another station and use it there” “If it is not act of corruption, it must be godfatherism that is keeping some people for eight years in a place without moving them. I think it is better they move them “

–DGM NOW ANSWERABLE TO AGM CHUKS OKOH, Personnel of the department of operations under the directorate of airport operations of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), may soon engage the management of the organisation in a showdown following abnormalities in posting personnel to various airports across the country without recourse to seniority Most of the postings investigations revealed, are lopsided and unreasonable. In some airports across the country, Assistant General Managers are placed above Deputy General Managers, thereby forcing the senior staff to take directives from their subordinates. An act seen as victimisation A situation described as a taboo and unhealthy, capable of derailing the  civil service and killing morales of personnel. Investigation by our correspondent revealed that mostly affected by this irregularities in postings are, those in Kaduna, Ibadan, Maiduguri, Abuja airports. Investigations further revealed that in Samuel Ladoke Akintola international airport Ibadan, with Afuwape Gbenga Oladipupo, an Assistant General Manager is placed above head of department (operations)  Oyebanji Anthonia Omozele At the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport Abuja, head of department, operations Oloyede Oyenekan Olaoluwa of level 15, an Assistant general manager is heading other five Deputy General Managers The DGM’S are, Adinlewa, Lenmwa, DGM OPS Emoruwa, Doris Sade -DGM OPS ABUJA, Mba-Chidokwe, Kate Ngozi- DGM OPS ABUJA; Isyaka, Rasheedat Suleh – DGM OPS ABUJA; Nuhu, Nanloh Peter – DGM OPS ABUJA. In  Kaduna the airport manager is a level 15 officer, an AGM  Aliyu Garba Mohammed while there are two level 16 senior DGM officers, Hussaini Maryam Armiyau, DGM OPS. and Abdullahi Jibril DGM OPS. At Maiduguri Airport, the Regional Manager, Bello Ibrahim of safety is on level 15, who is also an AGM. Investigations further revealed that there are a lot of DGM’S in various stations across the country suffering the same fate Some of the affected officers have written petitions to the Managing Director of FAAN and are calling for justice and equity in the interest of the industry and urged the management of FAAN to embark on operation  staff audit to avoid further victimisation by those occupying these positions. A source said it was ploy to ensure that some people in the system does not attain certain post. All fingers are pointed at the the general manager of operations for these anomalies in postings as the department draft and send names to its director for approval to the Managing Director for the final approval before human resources will issue letters to the affected staff Reacting to the development a top labour leader in the office of the Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP) who does not want his name in print, condemned the trend and said the union will fight for those involved in this victimization as ANAP was formed for all cadres of workers to protect them from victimization. The Director of Public Affairs, FAAN Mr Henry Agbebire, described it as strange and queried the possibility of such actions and promised to liaise with the human resources department when our correspondent contacted him. Reacting to the development, the Director of Airport Operations, Capt Abdullahi Mahmood, said the airport manager in Maiduguri just retired last week and was told to hand over to the most senior person in operations at the airport to act pending when a substantive manager will be appointed. Mahmood said the organisation is trying to correct the wrongs of the past by ensuring that operations personnel man airports as they are trained on airport management. He noted that those claimed to be working under the AGM’S are not from the operations department but other departments such as Aviation security or fire. He said a DGM outside airport operations will not be given the responsibility to head the airport if they have AGM operation in the airport

  CHUKS OKOH After eight years of meritorious service with the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) Alhaji Kabiru Mohammed, General Manager, Research and Development bowed out last week with encomiuns poured on him by colleagues. A farewell ceremony was not merely a routine send-off; it became a heartfelt tribute to a man whose career left an indelible mark on the Authority. It was an evening steeped in gratitude, admiration, and respect, celebrating a legacy of service, resilience, and humility. From the opening moments, the atmosphere brimmed with emotion. A citation read by Mrs. Ezinne Oguledo detailed Mohammed’s journey – his humble beginnings, academic pursuits, and professional affiliations – painting a portrait of a life defined by persistence and excellence. Tributes reflecting the depth of his impact followed as FAAN’s Director of Corporate Services, Mr. Jensen Asaba, represented by Mr. Segun Peters, spoke of the bittersweet nature of the occasion: the joy of celebrating Mohammed’s transition into a new phase of life, and the pain of seeing a pillar of the Authority bow out. Other colleagues echoed similar sentiments. Mr. Hyacinth Ngwu praised Mohammed’s versatility, noting his remarkable contributions across five different departments. General Managers Mrs. Asmau Nagenu and Mr. Oluwaseun Peter hailed his humility, collaborative spirit, and quiet strength. To them, Mohammed was not just a colleague but a source of inspiration who carried out his duties with grace and purpose. A deeply personal tribute came from Alhaji Alhassan Gwarzo, a longtime friend and fellow member of the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN). He reminisced about their days as classmates and professional allies, describing Mohammed as an energetic and vibrant figure who remained deeply committed to service beyond his official duties. “Welcome back to private life,” he said warmly, convinced that retirement would not diminish Mohammed’s spirit. The family’s gratitude was conveyed through his son, Kamal Mohammed, who thanked FAAN for honouring his father. He described his father as strong, vibrant, and still brimming with energy – a man of integrity, humility, and quiet excellence. To them, retirement was not an end, but a culmination of a distinguished journey filled with sacrifices and triumphs. When Alhaji Mohammed himself took the floor, the room fell silent. In his trademark calmness, he reflected on his years at FAAN as enriching and transformative. He recalled joining the Authority as a stranger to many, but leaving with invaluable friendships and bonds. Though challenges arose, he saw them as bends in the road that only strengthened his resolve. Above all, he expressed gratitude to the Almighty, his family, and his colleagues for their unwavering support. “What stands out in FAAN,” he said with quiet pride, “is the culture of love and mutual support among staff. It is remarkable and worthy of commendation.” The evening culminated in the cutting of the cake, a toast, gift presentations, and a cascade of photographs capturing moments of joy and reflection. What emerged was more than a retirement ceremony. It was a celebration of a man who walked FAAN’s corridors as a manager, mentor, and friend – a symbol of loyalty and integrity. Though Alhaji Kabiru Mohammed now bows out of active service, the echoes of his contributions will continue to resonate within the Authority for years to come.