The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Nigerian Institution of Safety Engineers (NISafetyE) have expressed their commitment to strengthening collaboration in advancing aviation safety standards. This follows the conferment of Honorary and Fellowship awards on key NCAA officials at the NCAA Corporate Headquarters in Abuja.
Speaking at the award ceremony, Oluseun Faluyi, National Chairman of NISafetyE, emphasized the importance of safety regulators in engineering and public safety.
He highlighted the role of the NCAA in ensuring high safety standards in Nigeria’s aviation sector and noted that the awards symbolize a shared commitment to fostering continuous improvement in safety engineering practices.
“Many regulators, such as the NCAA, have engineers who are deeply engaged in ensuring public safety, which is a cardinal responsibility of any responsible government.
“That is why we believe that you should be part of this professional circle of trust, where knowledge-sharing and technical expertise drive continuous improvement in safety standards,” Faluyi stated.
In his response, Chris Ona Najomo, Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), reaffirmed the NCAA’s dedication to maintaining and exceeding global aviation safety standards.
He underscored the critical role of safety engineering in aviation, citing its impact on designing safer systems, implementing robust management practices, and ensuring operational excellence.
“The aviation industry is one where safety is paramount, and the contributions of safety engineers, pilots, air traffic controllers, and occupational safety professionals cannot be overemphasized. Through strategic collaboration, continuous innovation, and unwavering commitment to safety standards, we can achieve safer skies for all,” Najomo said.
Looking ahead, Najomo called for deeper synergy between the NCAA and NISafetyE, particularly in areas such as research and development, capacity-building programs, and the exchange of best practices.
He emphasized that a strong partnership would enhance Nigeria’s ability to address emerging safety challenges while equipping the next generation of safety professionals with the necessary skills and expertise.
“Together, we can enhance our safety frameworks, share best practices, and develop capacity-building programs that empower the next generation of safety professionals. By fostering a strong partnership, we can address emerging safety challenges and ensure that Nigeria continues to meet and exceed global aviation safety standards,” he added.
The DGCA further dedicated the award to the entire team at the NCAA, acknowledging their dedication to upholding the highest safety standards in the aviation sector. He also expressed gratitude for the support of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development in achieving the authority’s safety objectives.
The Director General of Civil Aviation was honoured with an Honorary Fellowship from NISafetyE in recognition of his outstanding contributions to aviation safety. In addition, two senior NCAA officials, Ini Udofia, Technical Assistant, and Iteke C. Ifeanyi, General Manager, Air Operator Certification and Surveillance, were conferred with Fellowships of the Institution.