By Obasola Olatunde
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has dismissed claims by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu that some Nigerian pilots operate aircraft under the influence of drugs such as Indian hemp, describing the allegation as baseless and misleading.
Kalu, representing Abia North, had alleged during a Senate plenary session that some Nigerian pilots operate aircraft under the influence of drugs, such as Indian hemp, and evade on-the-spot drug checks due to lapses in the NCAA’s oversight.
In a detailed response, Captain Chris Najomo described the Senator’s claim as “baseless and misleading.”
He firmly stated that all pilots undergo rigorous medical certification, which includes comprehensive psychological and substance use screening, before being cleared to operate.
Najomo underscored that Nigeria’s aviation oversight system meets International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) audit standards, with safety compliance ensured through continuous random drug tests and daily ramp inspections.
The Director General also used the opportunity to clarify technical details, noting that while modern aircraft feature advanced autopilot and autoland systems, these technologies do not replace pilot control.
He asserted that all take-offs and landings in Nigeria are still manually executed by licensed flight crew, further reinforcing the importance of pilot fitness and alertness.