Reps Committee Tasks NCAA with Full Enforcement of Nigerians with Disabilities Act in Aviation Sector

The House of Representatives Committee on Disability Matters has called on the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to ensure full enforcement of the Nigerians with Disabilities Act, 2018 across the aviation sector.

This charge was delivered by the Committee Chairman, Hon. Dr Bashiru Dawodu, during an oversight visit to the NCAA’s corporate headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday.

The Committee, mandated to oversee compliance with the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018, underscored the importance of inclusivity in employment, accessibility, rehabilitation, and protection for persons with disabilities (PWDs) within national policies, programmes, and budgets.

Dr Dawodu commended the NCAA for its commitment to aligning with the provisions of the law and described the Authority as a responsible organisation taking proactive steps to enhance inclusivity.

He emphasised that as the apex regulatory body in aviation, the NCAA is not only expected to enforce the Act within its own operations but also among sister agencies, airline operators, and other stakeholders within the aviation ecosystem.

“You are responsible for the enforcement of the PWD regulation in the aviation industry,” he stated firmly.

The Committee Chairman acknowledged the strides made by the Authority in areas such as employment of persons with disabilities, support for disability-focused initiatives, and efforts to enhance accessibility within its facilities.

Responding on behalf of the Director-General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Capt. Chris Najomo, the Director of Operations, Licensing and Training (DOLT), Capt. Donald Tonye Spiff, affirmed the NCAA’s commitment to non-discrimination and inclusiveness.

He noted that the Authority had conducted audits of its buildings and implemented corrective measures to ensure access for persons with disabilities.

Also speaking, the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr Michael Achimugu, reiterated the Authority’s deliberate approach to disability matters.

He disclosed that a comprehensive risk assessment had been conducted and that implementation of necessary measures was ongoing.

He added that since Capt. Najomo assumed leadership of the NCAA, disability-related concerns have been prioritised, and the Authority has consistently supported programmes that benefit persons with disabilities.

During the visit, various directorates within the NCAA made presentations to the Committee, outlining their respective levels of compliance with the Nigerians with Disabilities Act, further demonstrating the Authority’s collective resolve to foster an inclusive and accessible aviation environment.

The oversight visit is seen as part of the National Assembly’s continued effort to ensure that public institutions implement laws aimed at promoting the rights and welfare of all Nigerians, especially vulnerable groups.