NCAA, WFP Seal Landmark Pact to Strengthen Humanitarian Air Operations in Nigeria
In a decisive move to bolster emergency response and improve the delivery of life-saving aid, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the World Food Programme (WFP) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing humanitarian air services across Nigeria.
The agreement, formalised in Abuja on March 25, 2026, establishes a strategic framework designed to improve access to vulnerable and crisis-affected communities, particularly those in remote and hard-to-reach areas where conventional logistics remain a challenge.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Director-General of Civil Aviation, Chris Najomo, described the partnership as a demonstration of shared commitment to humanitarian service through strengthened collaboration.
He underscored the indispensable role of aviation in crisis response, noting that rapid air access often determines the speed and effectiveness of humanitarian interventions.
According to him, the NCAA will intensify operational coordination with humanitarian partners, streamline regulatory processes for relief flights, and support capacity-building initiatives aimed at improving efficiency and safety standards in emergency air operations.
Najomo further emphasised that the initiative aligns with Nigeria’s broader ambition to position itself as a regional hub for humanitarian aviation services in West Africa, leveraging its growing aviation infrastructure and regulatory framework to support cross-border relief efforts.
On his part, WFP Deputy Country Director, Edouard Thiam, described the MoU as a significant milestone that will deepen collaboration between both organisations.
He noted that the agreement would enhance their collective ability to deliver timely assistance, expand reach to underserved populations, and support recovery efforts more effectively.
“The strengthened partnership will ensure that humanitarian actors can respond more swiftly and efficiently, ultimately saving more lives and reducing the impact of crises on affected communities,” he said.
Also speaking, the NCAA Director of Special Duties, Augustina Erah, highlighted persistent operational challenges that have historically hindered humanitarian missions in Nigeria. These include fragmented access to operational zones, delays in obtaining necessary flight clearances, and inconsistencies in applicable charges.
She expressed optimism that the newly signed MoU would address these bottlenecks by harmonising procedures, simplifying regulatory requirements, and fostering a more coordinated approach to emergency air operations.
Industry observers note that humanitarian air services play a critical role in Nigeria, particularly in regions affected by conflict, natural disasters, and infrastructural limitations. By enabling faster deployment of aid workers, medical supplies, and food assistance, aviation remains a cornerstone of effective humanitarian logistics.
The signing ceremony was attended by senior officials from both organisations, including NCAA Director of Legal Services and Company Secretary, Mary Tufano-Eche; Director of Airworthiness Standards, Godwin Balang; and WFP representatives George Oguta, Dongwook Choi, Matthew Omata, and Chi Lael.
The NCAA–WFP partnership is expected to significantly enhance the efficiency, coordination, and impact of humanitarian air operations in Nigeria, marking a critical step towards ensuring that aid reaches those who need it most, when they need it most.
