Tanimu Hassan, Abuja
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has expressed concern over comments made by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, who alleged lapses in pilot preparation, claims of substance use among flight crew, and shortcomings in the Authority’s oversight duties.
In a press statement signed by the Director General, Captain Chris Najomo, the NCAA said the Senator should provide factual clarifications in the public interest.
Najomo stated that Nigeria’s aviation oversight system consistently meets the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) audit requirements under the Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme (USOAP), placing the country among those maintaining effective safety supervision systems.
“Contrary to the impression created, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority maintains a rigorous and internationally recognized system for certifying and monitoring the medical and professional fitness of all pilots operating in Nigeria.
“No pilot is permitted to operate a Nigerian-registered aircraft without holding both a valid pilot licence and a current medical certificate, as required by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig. CARs) Part 8.4.1.4.
“Holders of Commercial Pilot Licences (CPL) and Airline Transport Pilot Licences (ATPL) are, by the provisions of Nig. CARs 2.3.5.1 and 2.3.7.1, required to possess a Class 1 Medical Certificate before they are allowed to operate.”
According to the Authority, medical certificates are issued only after extensive aero-medical examinations by NCAA-authorised Aviation Medical Examiners (AAMEs) and approved by in-house aero-medical assessors.
“The scope of these examinations is extensive. It covers cardiovascular, neurological, psychological, metabolic, respiratory, and visual assessments to ensure that the pilot is fit to operate an aircraft safely. Nig. CARs Part 2.11.2.6(b) details the physical and mental requirements that must be met before a medical certificate is issued.”
The regulation specifies that an applicant must not suffer from any condition that could suddenly impair their ability to perform flight duties.
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The process also screens for psychoactive substance use, behavioural disorders, abnormal blood pressure, cardiovascular or neurological diseases, and other conditions that could compromise safety.
Medical certificates are valid for twelve months for pilots under 40, and six months for those aged 40 and above, after which renewal requires a new series of tests.
In addition, Nig. CARs Part 8.5.1.5 expressly prohibits any crew member from acting as a flight crew member within eight hours of consuming alcohol, while under its influence, or after using any psychoactive substance that could affect alertness, judgement, or performance.
The NCAA conducts on-the-spot alcohol and drug tests when there is reasonable suspicion of intoxication, and also carries out random, unannounced testing. Test results, it added, are admissible as legal evidence.
“NCAA inspectors conduct daily ramp inspections at airports across the country. These inspections are not limited to aircraft alone; they include direct engagement with the flight crew.”
“During these inspections, inspectors verify crew licences, medical certificates, and general fitness for duty. Any irregularity is immediately addressed, and appropriate enforcement action is taken in line with the Authority’s zero-tolerance policy for safety violations.”
Najomo cited the recent suspension of a ValueJet pilot in August 2025 for initiating departure procedures without proper clearance as an example of the NCAA’s commitment to discipline and safety.
“It is therefore inaccurate to suggest that pilots operate under the influence of substances or without adequate checks. The processes in place are not only thorough but also consistent with global standards prescribed by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).”
Addressing the Senator’s comments about modern aircraft automation, the NCAA clarified that while advanced autopilot and autoland systems exist, they do not replace pilots.
“Take-offs are entirely manual operations carried out by the flight crew. Autopilot functions are only activated after take-off, usually when the aircraft reaches a safe altitude.”
“Similarly, although some aircraft have autoland capabilities, these are used only under specific weather and airport conditions and always under pilot supervision.”
The Authority further explained that Nigeria currently has no airport certified for Category III (CAT III) operations — the standard required for fully automatic landings in low-visibility conditions — meaning all landings within Nigerian airspace are manually executed.
Reaffirming its commitment to aviation safety, the NCAA emphasised its pride in Nigeria’s safety record and the professionalism of its pilots.
“The NCAA remains proud of its safety oversight record and the professionalism of Nigerian flight crews. The Authority continues to uphold the highest standards of safety through continuous inspections, random substance testing, enforcement actions, and strict adherence to ICAO provisions.”
The statement concluded that air transport safety in Nigeria remains paramount and uncompromised, adding that while the concerns raised by Senator Kalu are noted, they do not reflect the reality of the nation’s aviation regulatory framework.
“The NCAA remains open to constructive engagement with the National Assembly and all stakeholders to strengthen the safety, security, integrity, and global reputation of Nigeria’s air transport industry.”