President Bola Tinubu has officially halted the proposed merger of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), a decision made after thorough review of the Steve Oronsanye Report’s recommendations.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, disclosed this development, emphasizing that the aviation sector was granted an exemption due to the president’s vision for progress and transformation within the industry.
Speaking during the 25th-anniversary celebration of the NCAA in Abuja on Saturday, Keyamo explained that while Tinubu had previously issued a directive restricting publicly funded international trips for federal government officials, aviation was strategically left out.
Insights sourced by YEPS News reveal that the initial directive, issued last year, stated:
“Given the prevailing economic challenges and the imperative for prudent fiscal management, Mr. President has directed a temporary suspension of all publicly funded international trips for federal government officials at all levels, for an initial period of three months from April 1, 2024. Any official seeking to embark on such a trip must obtain presidential approval at least two weeks in advance, and the trip must be deemed essential.”
However, Keyamo, while addressing attendees at the event, provided clarity on why aviation was exempted. He underscored the sector’s significance in maintaining global safety standards and regulatory compliance.
“But let us express our gratitude to Mr. President,” Keyamo stated. “Despite that directive, he made an exception for the aviation industry. I personally wrote to him on behalf of the entire sector, acknowledging the need for fiscal responsibility but also highlighting the critical nature of aviation safety.
“We explained that certain international engagements are non-negotiable due to global regulatory requirements, and the President, recognizing this, graciously approved the exemption.”
Exclusive information obtained by YEPS News indicates that the Oronsanye Report had recommended merging NCAA and NAMA as part of broader government reforms. However, after extensive deliberations, the federal government ultimately decided to abandon the proposal.
Reflecting on the evolution of the aviation industry, Keyamo praised the progress achieved over the years, citing advancements in policy formulation, safety and security oversight, legislative frameworks, air traffic management, airport expansion, accident investigations, and indigenous airline development.
“These milestones did not come without challenges,” he acknowledged. “However, with the efforts of previous administrations and the unwavering commitment of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, we have not only overcome obstacles but also set new benchmarks for growth.”
Keyamo further described the NCAA as a resilient institution that has withstood numerous challenges over the past 25 years.
“NCAA is a child of destiny,” he remarked. “Despite facing turbulent times and attempts to undermine it, the authority has stood the test of time. At 25 years, it has reached a stage of maturity, signifying its critical role in the sector.”
Touching on the now-shelved merger proposal, Keyamo revealed that it was one of the first issues reviewed by the current administration.
“The Oronsanye Report suggested merging NCAA and NAMA, a move that could have disrupted the industry,” he explained. “That recommendation had been passed from the Jonathan administration to Buhari’s government and then to the present leadership.
“When President Tinubu reviewed the report, he carefully analyzed each item, sought expert opinions, and allowed ministers to deliberate. After comprehensive discussions, it was clear that merging NCAA and NAMA was not in the best interest of the aviation sector. The proposal was ultimately set aside.”
With this decision, YEPS News reports that the administration reaffirms its commitment to strengthening aviation oversight, ensuring regulatory efficiency, and fostering sustainable development in Nigeria’s airspace management.