NCAA Strengthens Aviation Safety Oversight with Indoctrination Programme for New Flight Standards Officers
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has commenced a five-day intensive indoctrination training programme for the first batch of newly recruited officers into its Flight Standards Group (FSG), in a move aimed at strengthening regulatory capacity and enhancing aviation safety oversight in the country.
The induction programme, which began on Monday, 12 January 2026, is being held at the NCAA Lagos Regional Office Annex Training Hall in Ikeja, Lagos.
It is designed to equip the new officers with the foundational knowledge, technical orientation and regulatory mindset required for effective performance within the Authority’s critical safety oversight framework.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Director-General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Capt. Chris Najomo, described the indoctrination exercise as a clear demonstration of NCAA Management’s unwavering commitment to staff development and technical competence.
He noted that the Flight Standards Group represents the technical backbone of the NCAA and must therefore be manned by highly skilled, knowledgeable and professionally grounded personnel.
Capt. Najomo explained that the FSG indoctrination programme is a mandatory requirement under Training Category One of the NCAA Inspector Training System (ITS), which provides a structured framework for developing competent aviation safety inspectors.
He urged participants to remain focused, participate actively in all sessions and take full advantage of the opportunity to deepen their professional capacity and understanding of the Authority’s regulatory mandate.
“The quality of safety oversight we deliver as a regulator is directly tied to the competence and professionalism of our inspectors,” the DGCA stated, stressing that continuous learning and strict adherence to standards are essential in the ever-evolving global aviation environment.
In his welcome address, the Director of Airworthiness and Chairman of the Flight Standards Group, Engr. Godwin Balang, expressed deep appreciation to the DGCA for his consistent support and personal involvement in all indoctrination and capacity-building programmes.
He assured participants and management of the FSG’s continued commitment to professionalism, excellence and integrity in the discharge of its regulatory responsibilities.
Also speaking at the event, the Director of Human Resources and Administration, Dr. (Mrs) Anastasia Gbem, highlighted the enormous responsibility placed on the NCAA as Nigeria’s sole civil aviation regulator.
She noted that the Authority has recorded significant milestones in recent years, attributing these achievements to the exemplary leadership and strategic direction of Capt. Najomo.
Dr. Gbem emphasised the importance of discipline, dedication and ethical conduct among the newly inducted officers, reminding them that their roles directly impact aviation safety, public confidence and Nigeria’s standing in the global aviation community.
The Flight Standards Group comprises several key directorates within the NCAA that jointly exercise safety oversight responsibilities.
These include the Directorate of Airworthiness; the Directorate of Aerodrome and Airspace Standards; the Directorate of Operations, Licensing and Training Standards; and the Directorate of Legal Services and Company Secretary.
The indoctrination programme is expected to provide the new officers with a comprehensive understanding of the NCAA’s regulatory structure, safety oversight functions and international best practices, thereby preparing them for effective service within the nation’s civil aviation sector.
