Senate To Consider Najomo’s Nomination As Substantive Director-General Of Civil Aviation

Abuja, Nigeria – The Nigerian government has nominated Captain Chris Najomo as the substantive Director-General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), sending his name to the Senate for screening and confirmation.

The nomination follows Najomo’s appointment as Acting DGCA on December 13, 2023, after the suspension of Captain Musa Nuhu.

Sources indicate that Aviation and Aerospace Development Minister Festus Keyamo championed Najomo’s nomination, citing their close working relationship over the past year.

While the Ministry’s silence on the matter is notable, a groundswell of support for Najomo’s confirmation has emerged from within the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

The Joint Action Congress (JAC), an umbrella body representing four unions within the NCAA (ATSSSAN, NUATE, ANAP, and NAAPE), issued a communique last December urging the government to confirm Najomo.

The unions lauded Najomo’s leadership, citing a renewed sense of dignity and value for the workforce, and aligning his performance with President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda.”

The JAC highlighted Najomo’s ability to foster stability and growth within the agency, emphasizing the need for strong, professional leadership in the sensitive aviation sector.

The unions also noted that several key aviation stakeholders, both domestic and international, have publicly praised Najomo’s performance.

However, when contacted for confirmation, Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection for the NCAA, declined to comment, directing inquiries to the presidency or the National Assembly.

Najomo’s nomination now awaits Senate scrutiny. The outcome of the screening process will determine whether he transitions from acting to substantive Director-General, a move widely anticipated by a significant portion of the NCAA workforce and key industry players.

The Senate’s decision will undoubtedly shape the future direction of Nigeria’s civil aviation sector.