The Federal Government of Nigeria has inaugurated a Ministerial Task Force on illegal private charter operations and related matters in the aviation industry. The announcement was made on Thursday in Abuja by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.
The task force will focus on several key areas:
– Inventory Assessment: Taking inventory of all Private Non-Commercial Flight (PNCF) holders and Air Operator Certificate (AOC) holders.
– Illegal Charters Investigation: Determining the reasons behind the persistence of illegal charter operations by PNCF holders despite regulatory controls.
– License Verification: Reviewing the authenticity and validity of professional licenses of pilots and crew in the country.
– Regulatory Recommendations: Suggesting additional measures for regulatory agencies to curb illegal activities and recommending appropriate sanctions for defaulters.
– Operational Monitoring: Proposing further measures to monitor the operations and activities of private aircraft in Nigeria.
Read Also:
The task force is composed of industry professionals known for their high repute and integrity. The members include:
-Capt. Ado Sanusi as Chairman
-Capt. Roland Iyayi as Vice Chairman
– Director of Air Transport, Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development as Secretary
– Theresa Babaoye (DATR-NCAA)
– One nominee from the National Security Adviser – Capt. Daniel Quansah
-Capt. Patrick Ogunlowo
-Obafemi Bajomo (SA-HMA)
The task force is expected to work for three months, with a possibility of extension if necessary. Minister Keyamo emphasized the importance of collective efforts to restore confidence in the aviation industry, eliminate illegal operations, and ensure adherence to the highest standards of safety and legality.
The initiative comes in response to numerous reports highlighting the thriving practice of illegal charter operations, which undermines the efforts of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and other regulatory bodies. Keyamo expressed optimism that these collective efforts would lead to a stronger, more secure, and prosperous aviation industry.
