NCAA DG warns against compliance shortfalls in Nigerian ATOs

By Chinelo Obogo

Nigerian Aviation Training Organisations (ATOs) are under increasing pressure to uphold stringent compliance standards amid rapid technological advancements, evolving regulations, and operational complexities, Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Chris Najomo, has said.

Najomo said this at a stakeholders’ workshop in Lagos on Monday titled, ‘Managing Approved Organisations’ Compliance With the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig. CARs)’ which convened industry experts to address the gaps and come up with solutions.

In his keynote address which was delivered on his behalf by Mr. Hyelni Bassi, NCAA’s General Manager of Licensing, Najomo said: “The industry, aviation professionals, and the traveling public depend on the rigorous training and compliance measures that we establish together. These organisations are the foundation upon which we build well-trained professionals who ensure the safety and efficiency of our aviation operations.”

Najomo outlined critical challenges facing ATOs, including the need to adapt to new technologies and align with evolving regulatory demands. He urged stakeholders to leverage the workshop as a platform to “share insights, discuss best practices, and foster a culture of transparency and accountability” in training programs.

Adoyi Sunnie, Head of the ATO Inspectorate at the NCAA, provided a blunt assessment of current compliance shortfalls, revealing that “most applications received for approvals do not meet regulatory requirements.”
He detailed non-negotiable benchmarks for ATOs, including adequate facilities, qualified personnel, comprehensive manuals, and functional quality and safety management systems. “Applicants must comply with regulations. They must have conducive environments, appropriate training devices, and competent personnel to plan, supervise, and deliver courses,” Sunnie said.
He acknowledged delays in approval processes but assured stakeholders that the NCAA is “leveraging technology to expedite procedures without compromising standards.”

Participants explored strategies to streamline compliance management, while the NCAA emphasised the need for ATOs to proactively align with Nig. CARs, particularly as Nigeria’s aviation sector expands.

As the workshop concluded, Najomo called for collective vigilance, urging stakeholders to “ensure ATOs not only meet but exceed regulatory expectations.”