NCAA DG Chris Najomo Tasks New Aviation Inspectors on Ethics, Unveils Training Roadmap

The Director-General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Chris Najomo, has issued a firm directive to newly recruited Aviation Safety Inspectors and Technical Personnel, stressing that professionalism, integrity, and strict adherence to ethical standards must define their conduct in service.
Speaking during an inaugural meeting held at the NCAA Annex Conference Hall in Ikeja, Lagos, on Thursday, April 30, 2026, Najomo made it clear that the Authority will not tolerate any form of misconduct capable of undermining regulatory efficiency or eroding stakeholder confidence.
In a pointed warning, the NCAA boss cautioned against bureaucratic excesses, particularly the practice of withholding critical operational manuals over minor typographical errors. He described such actions as counterproductive and unacceptable under his leadership, emphasizing that regulatory responsibilities must be discharged with fairness, diligence, and professionalism.
“As ambassadors of the Authority, your actions will reflect the credibility and global standing of Nigeria’s aviation sector,” Najomo stated, urging the new recruits to uphold the highest standards at all times.
The DGCA outlined a comprehensive training and career development roadmap designed to equip the officers with the required technical competence and regulatory expertise. The programme begins with the Flight Standards Group (FSG) Indoctrination Course, followed by structured On-the-Job Training (OJT). Upon successful completion, the personnel will be certified into key operational roles such as Principal Operations Inspectors, Cabin Safety Inspectors, Ground Operations Inspectors, and Licensing Inspectors.
Describing their recruitment as a rare privilege, Najomo encouraged the new inspectors to see their roles as a call to national service, adding that the Authority remains committed to enhancing staff welfare to boost morale and productivity.
Also speaking at the event, the Director of Operations, Licensing and Training Standards, Captain Don Spiff, commended the DGCA’s leadership for fostering a conducive work environment and setting a clear direction for professionalism within the Authority.
Similarly, the Regional Manager of the NCAA Lagos Office, Olubukola Teriba, urged the new recruits to approach their duties with seriousness, discipline, and unwavering integrity, noting that the safety of the aviation ecosystem depends heavily on their vigilance and commitment.
Industry Context and Reflection
The directive comes at a time when Nigeria’s aviation industry is under increasing pressure to strengthen regulatory oversight, improve safety compliance, and align with international best practices. Industry observers note that the emphasis on ethical conduct and structured training reflects a deliberate effort by the NCAA to reposition itself as a more transparent and performance-driven regulator.
By addressing long-standing concerns around regulatory bottlenecks and inefficiencies, Najomo’s stance signals a shift toward a more pragmatic and globally competitive aviation oversight framework.
For the newly recruited inspectors, the expectations are clear: technical expertise alone will not suffice. Their ability to balance enforcement with professionalism, and discipline with fairness, will be critical in shaping the future of aviation safety in Nigeria.
As the sector continues to evolve, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how this new cadre of inspectors translates policy direction into measurable improvements in safety standards, operational efficiency, and public confidence.
NCAA Director-General Capt. Chris Najomo charges newly recruited aviation inspectors to uphold professionalism and ethical standards, warning against sharp practices and outlining a structured training roadmap to strengthen Nigeria’s aviation safety oversight.