The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mahmoud Adam Kambari, has commenced a strategic familiarisation tour of aviation agencies, beginning with the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) and the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), as part of efforts to strengthen institutional efficiency and deepen inter-agency collaboration.
The visit, which is expected to extend to other agencies under the Ministry, is aimed at gaining firsthand insight into their operations while fostering professionalism, synergy, and industrial harmony across the aviation sector.
Speaking during the visits, Kambari reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to working closely with its agencies, describing them as critical partners in achieving national aviation objectives.
He assured agency heads of his readiness to support their mandates and promote a unified approach to sectoral development.
Kambari underscored the importance of reinstating regular top management meetings involving the Honourable Minister, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry Directors, and heads of aviation agencies. He noted that such engagements would serve as a strategic platform for addressing sectoral challenges and advancing sustainable solutions.
Kambari emphasised that his administration would prioritise collaboration, staff welfare, and operational safety, stressing that a motivated workforce is essential for optimal performance. He also called for timely staff promotions across agencies to prevent stagnation and boost morale.
“We will continue to support all agencies to succeed, ensuring that Nigeria’s aviation industry remains a key economic driver and a hub of global connectivity,” he stated.
He further urged staff across the agencies to remain dedicated, loyal, and supportive of their leadership in order to achieve organisational mandates effectively.
Kambari commended the Managing Director of NAMA, Engr. Farouk Ahmed Umar, and the Director General of NCAA, Captain Chris Najomo, describing them as seasoned professionals whose leadership is vital to the growth of the sector.
He reiterated the commitment of the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON, to aligning Nigeria’s aviation industry with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards.
While expressing satisfaction with Nigeria’s current ICAO rating, Kambari charged the agencies to intensify efforts towards improved performance in subsequent evaluation cycles.
In his remarks, the Managing Director of Nigeria Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Engr. Farouk Ahmed Umar, appreciated the Permanent Secretary’s visit, describing it as a confidence-boosting initiative.
He highlighted NAMA’s critical role in managing the nation’s airspace and providing navigation services to airports and aerodromes nationwide.
He also outlined ongoing projects within the agency, including upgrades in Aeronautical Information Services (AIS), Control Tower Infrastructure, Voice Communication and Control Systems (VCCS), and the deployment of Space-Based Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B), among others.
However, he noted key challenges such as funding constraints for safety-critical projects, high operational costs, manpower shortages, and revenue deductions, appealing for sustained government support.
Similarly, the Director General of Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Chris Najomo, described the visit as timely and commendable, urging enhanced cooperation among aviation agencies.
He highlighted the Authority’s regulatory achievements, including improvements in staff welfare, infrastructure, ICT systems, and digital transformation.
Najomo further disclosed that the agency has issued eight Air Operator Certificates (AOCs) under the current administration, marking a significant milestone for the industry.
He, however, called for increased funding to address financial limitations associated with its cost-recovery mandate.
The familiarisation tour underscores the Ministry’s renewed drive to strengthen governance, enhance operational efficiency, and position Nigeria’s aviation sector for sustained growth and global competitiveness.
Chindaya Ahmadu Audu Adamu
Director, Press and Public Affairs
