Najomo Tasks Stakeholders with Vigilance, Collaboration, Innovation to Tackle Evolving Aviation Threats
The Director-General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Chris Najomo, has reaffirmed the Authority’s unwavering commitment to fortifying aviation security across Nigeria’s airspace.
Najomo made this affirmation during a compelling keynote address at the High-Level Aviation Security Stakeholders’ Symposium held on Tuesday, 29th April 2025, at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja,
The DGCA, who served as the Chief Host of the event, warmly welcomed participants comprising government officials, aviation executives, military and police personnel, industry stakeholders, service providers, and members of the press to what he described as “a veritable avenue for strategic collaboration, innovation, and proffering real actionable solutions.”
“As professionals, innovators, policymakers, and guardians of the skies, we are united by a shared commitment to securing one of the world’s most vital and dynamic sectors: aviation,” he declared, highlighting the indispensable role of aviation as a catalyst for commerce, cultural exchange, and economic development.
However, he cautioned that this global connectivity comes with “increasingly-evolving threats” such as cyberattacks, terrorism, insider threats, and the misuse of unmanned aerial systems.
“The threat environment is constantly changing,” he stressed, noting that effective countermeasures can only be actualised through the competence and commitment of personnel.
Championing what he termed the “doctrine of training, training, and more training,” the DGCA laid out four core imperatives critical to safeguarding civil aviation, which include vigilance, collaboration, technology and innovation, and compliance and standards.
By vigilance, Najomo emphasised: “We must remain vigilant and proactive in identifying and mitigating potential threats to civil aviation.”
He emphasised the importance of collaboration for inter-agency synergy, underscoring the significance of information sharing and coordination. “No one can do it alone,” he asserted.
He advocated the use of advanced tools such as biometrics, Artificial Intelligence, and cybersecurity solutions to bolster security and operational efficiency.
The DG reaffirmed the need for strict adherence to international standards and national regulations, which ensure consistency and effectiveness of implemented security measures.
He noted that the symposium was far more than an academic exercise, but a dynamic platform for meaningful engagement, knowledge sharing, and critical thinking aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s rating in aviation security compliance in accordance with the International Civil Aviation Organisation’s Standards and Recommended Practices (ICAO SARPs).
He commended the efforts of the NCAA team of facilitators, particularly the Director of Aviation Security Regulation, for their diligence in curating the symposium’s theme and discussions.
He also expressed his appreciation for the impressive turnout of seasoned professionals and high-level decision-makers present at the forum.
“As we begin deliberations, let us remember that achieving security is not a destination, rather, it is a continuous, painstaking journey requiring the firm commitment and responsibility of every relevant stakeholder,” he concluded.
The symposium marks a significant step in Nigeria’s strategic efforts to enhance aviation security amid growing global and regional challenges.
