FG orders comprehensive audit of Nigerian airlines for passenger safety
By Innocent Raphael
In a move to ensure the safety of passengers and uphold industry standards, the Federal Government has directed the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to conduct a thorough audit of all local airlines in the country.
This decision comes in the wake of the suspension of Dana Airlines following a runway incident at Lagos airport.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, announced the directive on Thursday, during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today program.
Keyamo emphasized the need for stringent measures to guarantee passenger safety and the overall health of the civil aviation sector.
The Minister’s directive to suspend Dana Airlines has sparked controversy, with some civil aviation watchdogs accusing him of interfering with the autonomy of the NCAA.
However, Keyamo defended his actions, citing legal authority to ensure national security and uphold industry standards.
The minister highlighted concerns over the financial viability and safety record of Dana Airlines, pointing to incidents dating back two years.
“Let those aviation experts take their wives and children to board that airline that was declared unsafe,” he stated.
“Would Nigerians have preferred that I keep quiet and be part of the cartel, all in the name of I am not supposed to interfere? What am I doing as minister?” he queried.
Responding to questions about the possible duration of the audit of Dana Airlines, he stated, “It can be as quick as possible. Like I said, do the right thing, return to business. We must do the right things for the safety of Nigerians. Not only them (Dana Airlines), we will carry an audit of all of them, all of them. Let Nigerians be safe when they fly our airlines.”
He further asserted the suspension will remain in effect pending the outcome of the comprehensive audit, enforced by NCAA Director General Chris Najomo.
