1 week ago
33
By Chinelo Obogo
On February 11, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) hosted a high-profile meeting in Abuja, bringing together key aviation stakeholders and Dr. Bedan Thendu, a distinguished Air Navigation Services expert from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
At the core of the discussions was the development of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Master Plan (CAMP), a strategic framework designed to tackle the industry’s most pressing challenges, strengthen regulatory structures and chart a bold course for a more efficient, resilient and globally competitive aviation sector.
Daily Sun learned that the meeting also included representatives from the local aviation ecosystem, who contributed to discussions on the need for a stronger, more autonomous NCAA, improved licensing and training and the contentious issue of multiple charges levied against airline operators.
At the meeting, stakeholders expressed deep concern over the looming retirement of Nigeria’s highly experienced aviation professionals, emphasizing the urgent need to cultivate a new generation of well-trained experts to sustain the industry’s growth and operational excellence.
Equally pressing was the long-standing issue of multiple charges imposed on airlines, a challenge that has repeatedly drawn criticism from the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON). Representatives from AON highlighted how these excessive levies have placed an undue financial burden on carriers, driving up operational costs and diminishing profitability. The meeting provided a crucial platform for AON to once again amplify its call for regulatory reforms, advocating for a more balanced and competitive business environment that would ensure the sustainability of airline operations in Nigeria.
A source at the meeting told Daily Sun that ICAO is leveraging its expertise to support Nigeria in developing a comprehensive Civil Aviation Master Plan (CAMP)—a strategic roadmap designed to reshape the industry’s future. The plan will address key areas such as infrastructure development, workforce training, and regulatory enhancements, ensuring a more robust and globally competitive aviation sector. With ICAO’s expert team already working closely with the NCAA, they are set to play a pivotal role in shaping the blueprint, aligning it with international best practices to drive sustainable growth and operational excellence.
“At the meeting, we explored potential funding for the sector, and the ICAO expert suggested that the African Development Bank could consider providing loans or grants based on a well-defined CAMP. The expert emphasized that a robust plan and a strong business case will be crucial for securing such funding. Additionally, the NCAA could use the master plan to push for more government support in addressing critical gaps within the industry,” the source said.
However, representatives at the engagement stressed that once the draft document is ready, stakeholders should be given the opportunity to review and critique it before its final adoption.
This will ensure that the CAMP reflects the needs and priorities of the entire sector.
English (US) ·