Aviation workers under the Air Transport Senior Staff Services Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN) have applauded the achievements of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr. Michael Achimugu, describing him as a worthy representative of Nigeria’s aviation industry.
The commendation came from ATSSSAN’s Deputy General Secretary, Comrade Olayinka Abioye, during a congress of aviation unions at the NCAA Regional Office in Lagos on Tuesday. He praised Achimugu’s growing professional recognition and his efforts to strengthen the Authority’s reputation through effective communication and stakeholder relations.
Abioye highlighted the contributions of Achimugu’s directorate to improving interactions between the regulator, airlines, passengers and other industry participants. He noted that such initiatives have enhanced public understanding of the NCAA’s responsibilities, particularly its consumer protection mandate.
ATSSSAN Celebrates Achimugu’s Growing Recognition
Addressing participants at the gathering, the ATSSSAN deputy general secretary publicly congratulated Achimugu and urged attendees to acknowledge his accomplishments.
“Is anybody from the office of the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection of the NCAA? We extend our congratulations to him for his recent awards. That man is a wonderful guy. Please clap for him,” Abioye said, drawing applause from the audience.
He also commended the aviation official for projecting a favourable image of the regulator beyond Nigeria’s borders.
“He is giving the NCAA a very good image internationally and within the country,” he stated.
The union’s recognition follows three major awards received by Achimugu in 2026, acknowledging his work in aviation communication, passenger advocacy, consumer protection and professional practice. The latest commendation further underscores the importance of public-facing leadership in strengthening confidence in Nigeria’s aviation regulatory system.
On October 5, 2026, Achimugu received the Protocol Man of the Year Award from the Centre for Protocol Profession Development (CPDD) and the Council of Protocol Professionals (CIPP). The presentation took place during the 13th International Protocol Officers Conference, Workshop and Awards (IPOC 2026) in Lagos.
The NCAA official was represented at the ceremony by the Assistant General Manager of the Education and Awareness Unit, Mrs. Ekeh Okam. Following the recognition, Achimugu expressed gratitude to the organisers and reiterated his commitment to protecting the rights and responsibilities of travellers and aviation operators.
Earlier, on June 29, 2026, he received the 2026/2027 African Brands Personality Award. The African Brands team, led by Mr. Godwin Enesi Chatta, presented the honour at the NCAA headquarters in Abuja, recognising Achimugu’s contributions to passenger rights advocacy and consumer protection.
His third recognition came at the 15th Nigeria Aviation (NIGAV) Awards in Lagos on April 17, 2026. There, Achimugu received the Aviation Agency Director Award for his efforts to advance consumer protection and strengthen engagement across the aviation sector.
As Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Achimugu communicates the NCAA’s regulatory activities, raises awareness of passenger rights and helps address consumer complaints. His directorate also facilitates engagement among the Authority, airlines, journalists and the travelling public.
Through these responsibilities, passengers receive information about their rights and obligations concerning flight disruptions, cancellations, baggage problems and ticket refunds. Effective communication helps travellers understand available remedies while encouraging airlines and other operators to meet their obligations.
The ATSSSAN commendation also draws attention to the importance of cooperation between regulatory authorities and organised labour. Constructive engagement among industry stakeholders can promote accountability, improve service delivery and strengthen public confidence in aviation institutions.
Staff of the directorate welcomed the union’s remarks, saying the recognition reinforced the importance of professionalism and clear communication in representing public institutions. They added that Achimugu’s awards reflect the growing relevance of consumer-focused engagement to aviation development.
The NCAA remains committed to aviation safety, regulatory compliance, consumer protection and improved service delivery under its statutory responsibilities.
