The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Keyamo, along with the acting Director General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Chris Najomo, played pivotal roles in securing a commendable score of 71.04 percent for Nigeria in the audit conducted by the International Civil Aviation Organisation’s (ICAO) Universal Security Audit Programme-Continuous Monitoring Approach (USAP-CMA) within the country’s aviation sector.
This information was disclosed by Michael Achimugu, the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at NCAA. Achimugu attributed the industry’s success to the exceptional leadership abilities and adeptness in effectively mobilizing manpower and resources to rectify all identified shortcomings; otherwise, Nigeria would have faced failure in the final evaluation.
Achimugu dismissed criticisms from observers who held the Minister and DG, of CAA accountable for the purportedly unsatisfactory ratings attained by the country, emphasizing that both officials had assumed their roles only a few months prior and had promptly embarked on efforts to enhance the deteriorating airport infrastructure and address the inadequate compensation of employees they encountered.
He stated, “Six months ago, we encountered a dilapidated industry with substandard infrastructure. The prevailing security and safety concerns did not arise within the past six months. Without the relentless dedication of the Honourable Minister and the Director of NCAA, the initial condition would have merited a score of less than 30 percent in the audit.
“Considering the circumstances upon assuming office by Keyamo and Najomo, the current rating reflects a considerably commendable performance, almost miraculous, I dare say. The ongoing narrative is merely a component of a broader strategy to oust Keyamo and Najomo from their positions. It is orchestrated by paid agents with a singular agenda.”He highlighted that the ICAO auditors commended the authority’s achievements during their conclusive briefing at NCAA, noting an instance where they raised concerns about the absence of certain facilities which were promptly provided the following day.
