The director-general of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Chris Ona Najomo has been awarded an Honourary Fellowship by the prestigious Nigerian Institution of Safety Engineers (NISafetyE) for his commitment to ensuring safety standards in the aviation industry.
This Honorary Fellowship is conferred only on professionals who prioritise safety in their careers and workplaces. Najomo boasts over 44 years of experience as an aviator, backed by impressive safety credentials, which led to this recognition.
In addition to Najomo, two staff members from the NCAA were also awarded fellowships. They are Engr. Ini Udofia, a technical assistant and Engr. Dr. Iteke C. Ifeanyi, the general manager of air operator certification and surveillance.
The national chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Safety Engineers (NISafetyE), Engr. Oluseun Faluyi, FNSE, FNISafetyE conferred the fellowships on behalf of the institution during a ceremony at the NCAA corporate headquarters in Abuja.
Before the awards were presented, the chairman emphasised the important role that regulators like the NCAA play in ensuring public safety, a cardinal responsibility of any responsible government. He stated, “That is why we believe you should be part of this professional circle of trust, where knowledge-sharing and technical expertise drive continuous improvement in safety standards.”
He also expressed a desire for greater collaboration between the NCAA and NISafetyE.
In response on behalf of the new fellows, Najomo highlighted the paramount importance of safety in the aviation industry and emphasised the unique roles played by safety engineers and other safety professionals, including pilots and air traffic controllers.
“From designing safer systems and structures to implementing robust safety management practices, safety engineering is indeed the backbone of aviation safety. It is through strategic collaboration, continuous innovation and an unwavering commitment to safety standards that we can achieve safer skies for all,” he noted.
As the director-general of NCAA, he acknowledged the significant role the Nigerian Institution of Safety Engineers could play in advancing safety engineering practices.
Najomo pointed out that there exists an excellent opportunity for synergy and deeper collaboration between the NCAA and the Institution. “Together, we can enhance our safety frameworks, share best practices, and develop capacity-building programmes that empower the next generation of safety professionals,” he affirmed.
He also indicated, that by fostering a strong partnership, particularly in research and development, emerging safety challenges could be addressed, ensuring that Nigeria continues to meet and exceed global aviation safety standards.
He expressed gratitude for the achievements of the NCAA, attributing them to team effort. “Our modest accomplishments have been made possible by the collective will and dedication of the Management – some of whom are present here today – and, by extension, the entire staff of the authority. This is further backed by the unwavering support of the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development.” “I dedicate this honour to all the safety professionals in the NCAA who tirelessly work to uphold the highest standards of safety in the aviation sector,” he concluded.
