Keyamo gives reason for refusal to shut down NCAA
Keyamo
Keyamo gives reason for refusal to shut down NCAA.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace, Festus Keyamo, has revealed the reasons behind the federal government’s decision to reject the recommendation to merge the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) with the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA).
Speaking at the NCAA Gala Night marking the authority’s 25th anniversary, Keyamo recounted how the Oronsaye report, which has been under consideration since the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan, proposed the merger as part of efforts to streamline government agencies.
Keyamo disclosed that the report, which was revisited by the current administration, initially recommended the dissolution of the NCAA.
However, he strongly opposed the move when it was presented before President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet.
“That report was passed on from Jonathan’s government to Buhari’s government and then to the present administration.
“The Oronsaye report was ready since Jonathan’s time, if I remember correctly. So, throughout the tenure of Buhari’s government, we couldn’t consider that report,” he stated.
According to Keyamo, the report was among the first issues deliberated upon when Tinubu’s administration assumed office.
“The President went on and on, considering every item in the report, listening to ministers on various merger proposals.
“When it got to aviation, and the President said, ‘Merge NCAA and NAMA as one body,’ I raised my hand and spoke for five minutes,” he recounted.
Keyamo emphasized that his argument convinced the President to drop the recommendation, ensuring that NCAA and NAMA remain independent entities.
“Because we have a wonderful President who listens to good counsel and good arguments, after I finished speaking, he said, ‘Item dropped. NCAA and NAMA will not merge,’” Keyamo added.
The Director-General of the NCAA, Chris Najomo, also spoke at the event, describing the authority’s 25-year journey as one of resilience, excellence, and unwavering commitment to safety and innovation in the aviation sector.
“In peace, with humility, a warm sense of accompaniment, and immense gratitude, I welcome you all to this gala and award night,” Najomo said.
He acknowledged the efforts of past director-generals, aviation associations, service providers, and the NCAA workforce, crediting them for the agency’s success and global recognition.
“Our progress has been made possible by the tireless dedication of past director-generals, management teams, aviation unions, and the entire NCAA staff. Your collective contributions have elevated NCAA to its current status as a leader in global aviation safety and oversight,” he said.
Najomo also emphasized the alignment of NCAA’s growth with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes a thriving aviation sector as a key driver of national development.
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