These illegal operations are completely unregulated. Sometimes, there isn’t even a passenger manifest—it’s that bad.

BY ANTHONY OMOH

A seven-member Ministerial Task Force on Illegal Charter Flight Operations, chaired by Captain Ado Sanusi, has revealed that the General Aviation Terminal (GAT) in Abuja is the primary hub for illegal charter activities in Nigeria. GAT, epicenter for 90% illegal charters, has undermined aviation security and revenue generation. 

The Task Force also identified critical lapses that have resulted in a staggering NGN120 billion revenue loss to the federal government over the past decade. These factors may be the reason why the Government is tinkering with the option of shutting down the terminal for reorganisation.

Presenting the Task Force’s findings on Tuesday in Abuja, Sanusi emphasized challenges that include regulatory weaknesses, loopholes in the Permit for Non-Commercial Flight (PNCF) system, inadequate oversight, and security vulnerabilities.

The Task Force recommended the immediate shutdown, reorganization, and reopening of the GAT, aligning with findings from an International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) security audit. Sanusi stressed that implementing these measures would curb illegal activities, enhance security, and create a more structured and revenue-efficient aviation sector. Furthermore, it may lead to ending the GAT as epicenter for 90% illegal charters

Minister Vows to Tackle Illegal Operations, Strengthen Regulations

Receiving the report, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, condemned the lack of proper regulation, which he said has enabled illegal operations and posed a serious threat to national security. He assured stakeholders that the findings would not be “swept under the rug,” reaffirming the government’s commitment to improving aviation safety and strengthening regulatory oversight.

Keyamo, a former prosecutor with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), vowed to tackle the issue head-on, stating, “When I resumed office, some advised me to let it go, arguing that regulating PNCF holders is difficult because they are often considered ‘untouchables.’ But my background, both in civil society and as an EFCC prosecutor, has trained me to touch the untouchable. That is my duty.”

Foreign Airline Under Investigation for Drug Trafficking

The Minister also disclosed that the government is investigating a foreign commercial airline accused by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) of aiding drug barons. He noted that if commercial airlines can be involved in such criminal activities, private jet owners are even more likely to be complicit.

“These illegal operations are completely unregulated. Sometimes, there isn’t even a passenger manifest—it’s that bad. We have logs and records of incidents involving this airline, including arrests of drug couriers. If this can happen with commercial airlines, imagine the risks with private jets,” Keyamo stated.

GAT: A Hub for Criminal Activities

The Minister expressed concern over reports that the VIP section of the GAT has become a hub for money laundering, drug trafficking, human trafficking, and other criminal activities. He hinted that the federal government may consider shutting down the terminal to address these issues. 

He said, “If we have to shut down GAT, we will do so in order to bring some sanity to aircraft charter services in the country.”

Commitment to a Safer Aviation Sector

Keyamo pledged to submit the Task Force’s report to the Presidency to devise strategies for implementing its recommendations. He also directed the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to publish a list of authorized PNCF holders in newspapers and at airports to deter illegal operators.

The Minister commended the Task Force for its dedication and reiterated the government’s ultimate goal: to create a safer aviation environment and maximize the impact of regulatory enforcement. “We are committed to ensuring that Nigeria’s aviation sector is secure, transparent, and profitable,” Keyamo concluded.

This comprehensive approach aims to restore integrity to the aviation sector, safeguard national security, and recover billions in lost revenue. The government’s decisive actions signal a renewed commitment to tackling illegal operations and fostering a safer, more transparent aviation industry.