The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has declared the Nigerian airspace open to flights operations and called on all air travelers to disregard any notice of travel ban in Nigeria. Captain Muhtar Usman Director General of the Aviation Authority announced.
Usman further stated that travel ban is absolute falsehood, misleading and the handiwork of some mischief makers. However, separate meetings were held at the NCAA Conference room in Lagos with the sister union, the Air Transport Senior Staff Services Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN). Also present in the conference meeting were the representatives of the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE) and National Association of Aircraft Pilot and Engineers (NAAPE).
Luckily, a beneficial agreement was met with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority management which was later circulated to all members with the agreeing statement to suspend any form of industrial action and toward the circular. It was further agreed that, the union executives to go back to their members and engage in further consultations.
In a statement signed by the acting General Manager and the Public Relations, Sam Adurogboye, Nigerian citizens and all air travelers are urged to disregard the speculated ban.
Civil aviation is a critical element in Nigeria’s transportation system and indeed its economy; it is however, one of the most regulated industries in the world.
Nigeria has 23 active domestic airlines, 20 airports and many regulated airstrips and heliports; 913 licensed engineers, 1700 cabin personnel and 554 licensed pilots. Besides being Africa’s most populous country, Nigeria is also an important destination for over 22 foreign carriers having secured Bilateral Air Services Agreements with over 78 countries.
