The Director-General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, Capt. Chris Najomo, has raised concerns over the lack of standard and quality compliance in various aviation training organizations.
Speaking in Lagos on Monday at the opening of a three-day workshop on managing approved training organizations in line with Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations, Najomo warned that this issue could impact the quality of aviation professionals in the country.
Najomo, represented by NCAA’s General Manager, Licensing, Hyelni Bassi, emphasized the critical role of Approved Training Organizations (ATOs) in the aviation sector. He noted that the quality of training and compliance measures undertaken by trainers and trainees directly impacts the air transport industry, its professionals, and the safety of the traveling public.
Bassi urged approved training organizations to adhere to the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations, emphasizing that compliance is essential for maintaining the quality and standards of the country’s aviation industry.
“The industry, aviation professionals, and ultimately, the travelling public depend on the rigorous training and compliance measures that we establish together. These organisations are the foundation upon which we build well-trained professionals who ensure the safety and efficiency of our aviation operations.
“Today, we face significant challenges in maintaining high standards of quality and compliance within our training organisations. Rapid advancements in technology, evolving regulatory frameworks, and the increasing complexity of aviation operations necessitate a proactive and collaborative approach.
“This workshop is an opportunity for stakeholders to share insights, discuss best practices, and foster a culture of transparency and accountability in their training programmes as they are expected to explore various aspects of compliance management, including regulatory requirements, evaluation methodologies, and mechanisms for continuous improvement.
“Together, let us work diligently to ensure that our approved training organisations not only meet but exceed the expectations set forth by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations,” he said.
Head of ATO Inspectorate, Adoyi Sunnie, while guiding stakeholders through ATO regulatory standards, stated that the workshop was organized based on NCAA’s findings. He noted that many applications received fail to meet regulatory requirements and expressed concerns over the poor state of some trainers’ facilities, equipment, and training devices.
He said, “As the CAA and also the applicants, we have a responsibility to do what is right; the applicants must comply with regulations. They must have adequate facilities and a conducive working environment appropriate for the task to be performed; there must be availability of information, technical data, equipment, training devices, and materials to conduct the proposed or approved courses.
“Others are the adequacy of key management and instructional personnel to plan, perform, and supervise the training to be conducted; the development and implementation of appropriate policies, procedures, and standards through their manuals; and the establishment and implementation of an effective quality and safety management system, among others.
“But we are leveraging technology to get this job done as quickly as possible without compromising standards.”
