The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued a comprehensive rebuttal to allegations made by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu on the floor of the Senate, in which he questioned the preparedness of Nigerian pilots, alleged substance abuse among flight crew, and criticised the NCAA’s oversight of aviation safety.
In a detailed statement signed by the Director-General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Capt. Chris Najomo, the Authority described the Senator’s assertions as “misinformed and inconsistent with established regulatory practice,” stressing that Nigeria’s aviation sector operates in strict compliance with global safety standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
“The NCAA holds the Distinguished Senator and the National Assembly in the highest regard,” Capt. Najomo said, “but it is important to set the record straight. The Authority operates one of the most rigorous systems of pilot licensing, medical certification, and operational oversight anywhere in Africa. No pilot is permitted to operate a Nigerian-registered aircraft without a valid licence and current medical certificate as required by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig. CARs).”
According to the statement, all holders of Commercial Pilot Licences (CPL) and Airline Transport Pilot Licences (ATPL) must possess a valid Class 1 Medical Certificate, issued only after undergoing a series of detailed aero-medical evaluations by NCAA Authorised Aviation Medical Examiners (AAMEs). These assessments are later reviewed and approved by in-house aero-medical assessors within the Authority.
The NCAA further explained that the scope of these medical evaluations is extensive and designed to ensure pilots are physically, mentally, and psychologically fit to operate aircraft safely.
“Our medical examinations are comprehensive,” Najomo emphasised. “They cover cardiovascular, neurological, psychological, respiratory, metabolic, and visual health. Pilots are also screened for the use of psychoactive substances, mental or behavioural disorders, abnormal blood pressure, and other conditions that could impair safe performance. The Authority does not compromise on these standards.”
Medical certificates are valid for twelve months for pilots under the age of forty and six months for those aged forty and above. Once expired, pilots must undergo the entire evaluation process again before their certificates can be renewed.
The statement also pointed to the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations Part 8.5.1.5, which prohibits any crew member from acting as flight crew within eight hours after consuming alcohol, or while under the influence of alcohol or any psychoactive substance.
The NCAA carries out on-the-spot drug and alcohol testing when there is reasonable suspicion of impairment, and also conducts random and unannounced tests.
“Where there is suspicion or evidence of intoxication, our inspectors act immediately,” the DGCA said. “Such tests are conducted without prior notice, and the results are legally admissible. The Authority maintains a zero-tolerance policy for any safety infraction related to substance use.”
In addition to medical oversight, the NCAA conducts daily ramp inspections at airports across the country. These inspections involve physical checks of aircraft, verification of crew licences and medical certificates, and assessment of general crew readiness.
Capt. Najomo cited a recent example to demonstrate the Authority’s firm stance on compliance: “Only in August 2025, the NCAA suspended the licence of a ValueJet pilot who initiated departure procedures without proper clearance. That action reflects our unwavering commitment to discipline, professionalism, and public safety.”
Responding to Senator Kalu’s claim that modern aircraft take off and land automatically, the NCAA clarified that such assumptions were inaccurate.
“While modern aircraft are equipped with advanced autopilot and autoland systems, they do not replace pilot control,” Najomo explained. “Take-offs are carried out manually by the pilots, and autopilot systems are engaged only when the aircraft reaches a safe altitude. Although some aircraft have autoland capabilities, these are used under specific weather and runway conditions, and always under pilot supervision.”
The Authority also clarified that no Nigerian airport currently meets the ICAO Category III (CAT III) certification for fully automatic landings, meaning all landings within Nigerian airspace are performed manually by pilots.
Reaffirming Nigeria’s compliance with international safety benchmarks, the NCAA noted that the country’s aviation oversight system continues to meet ICAO standards through consistent performance in the Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme (USOAP).
“Nigeria remains among countries recognised for maintaining an effective safety oversight system,” Najomo stated proudly. “Our record speaks to years of continuous investment in training, regulation, and enforcement. Nigerian pilots and operators have earned global respect for their professionalism and discipline.”
The DGCA reiterated that the NCAA’s foremost priority remains the safety and security of air transport operations in Nigeria, adding that the Authority welcomes constructive engagement with the National Assembly and other stakeholders to further strengthen the system.
“We welcome dialogue, but the facts must always guide the narrative,” Najomo concluded. “The NCAA will never tolerate any act or suggestion that undermines public confidence in our aviation system. The safety, integrity, and global reputation of Nigeria’s aviation industry remain non-negotiable.”
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