“Each airline went through the complete certification process and satisfied all conditions before being granted an AOC,” he emphasized.
Director General Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, Captain Chris Najomo, has announced sunset airport upgrades to extend operations at select airports until 10 p.m. This initiative, in partnership with the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), aims to enhance airline efficiency, minimize delays, and improve passenger experience.
Speaking at the Stakeholders’ Engagement on Transforming the Aviation Industry through Strategic Partnerships, Najomo emphasized the importance of infrastructure development, policy reforms, and safety advancements. He stressed that collaboration between regulators, operators, and investors is vital for sustainable industry growth.
“Through strategic engagements, we have tackled key industry challenges, boosting operational efficiency, safety, and consumer protection,” he said.
Najomo highlighted the benefits of sunset airport upgrades, explaining that extended hours will improve scheduling flexibility, reduce congestion, and enhance connectivity. He noted that later operations will also prevent flight diversions and cancellations caused by early airport closures, improving on-time performance.
Additionally, airlines can optimize aircraft utilization, reducing operational costs and boosting profitability. This development aligns with the government’s efforts to improve aviation infrastructure and passenger convenience.
As part of NCAA’s commitment to the ease of doing business, Najomo disclosed that in the past year, the authority approved five Air Operator Certificates (AOCs) for new entrants into the industry.
He stated that during the approval process, strict regulatory standards were upheld, ensuring that applicants did not cut corners and met all safety requirements.
Addressing concerns about aging aircraft, Najomo clarified that an aircraft’s age does not determine its safety. “What matters is how well an aircraft is maintained. Brand new aircraft can still take off and crash,” he explained.
He assured that the NCAA conducts continuous surveillance on all aircraft operating in Nigeria to ensure proper maintenance and adherence to safety standards.
Najomo also spoke on NCAA’s recent infrastructure milestones, including the commissioning of long-abandoned regional office buildings in Port Harcourt and Kano. He confirmed that the Civil Aviation Master Plan (CAMP), developed with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), is now fully implemented.
On safety, he highlighted the launch of the NCAA Flight Data Centre and the adoption of modern surveillance methodologies aligned with global best practices. He noted that the National Executive Safety Committee (NESC), inaugurated in 2024, continues to oversee Nigeria’s State Safety Programme (SSP).
Consumer protection remains a key focus. Najomo referenced regulatory actions that reduced airfare concerns, expanded local airline operations, and ended monopolies on foreign routes. He commended the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development for his role in Air Peace’s entry into the Lagos-London market.
“We also resolved disputes between the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) and Ground Handling Companies over charges, creating a fair industry framework,” he added.
The NCAA continues to drive digital transformation, streamlining licensing, certification, and permit issuance processes. The deployment of EMPIC-EAP regulatory software and the creation of electronic regulatory tools like the CPD and DATR portals have improved efficiency and transparency.
Najomo reaffirmed the NCAA’s commitment to aligning with the Honourable Minister’s Five-Point Agenda and Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritize infrastructure development, economic revitalization, and industry competitiveness.
He urged stakeholders to remain committed to collaboration. “Our aviation sector thrives on synergy. Together, we will build a world-class industry that supports Nigeria’s economic growth,” he concluded.
