Oronsaye report: FG steps down merger of NCAA, NAMA
By Seun Ibiyemi
The Federal Government, through the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has revealed that President Bola Tinubu has decided to suspend the proposed merger between the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), as recommended in the Steve Oronsaye report.
Keyamo also disclosed that the aviation sector was exempted from the foreign travel ban imposed on federal government officials last year. The ban, announced by the President, came into effect from April 2024, following concerns over the rising costs of international travel by Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).
The memo issued last year stated: “In light of the current economic challenges and the need for responsible fiscal management, Mr. President has directed a temporary ban on all publicly funded international trips for federal government officials, effective from 1st April 2024 for an initial period of three months. Any government official seeking to travel internationally at public expense must first obtain Presidential approval, with the trip deemed necessary.”
The Minister explained the reasons for the aviation sector’s exemption during the 25th anniversary celebration of the NCAA in Abuja.
Regarding the merger of NCAA and NAMA, Keyamo stated: “From humble beginnings, we have witnessed significant advancements in our sector, such as improved safety measures, enhanced air traffic management, airport development and certification, as well as the growth of indigenous airlines.”
“These achievements, although not without challenges, have been made possible through the continued efforts of past administrations and the full support of the present government under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership through the Renewed Hope Agenda,” he added.
Keyamo emphasised that despite past attempts to merge the two agencies, the NCAA has survived and thrived for 25 years. He recalled that the merger proposal, stemming from the Oronsaye report, had been passed through previous administrations and was revisited by the current one.
“The Oronsaye report recommended the merger of NCAA and NAMA. It was one of the first issues we addressed in this government. The president considered every item in the report and asked the council to vote. After listening to my arguments, the President decided that the merger of NCAA and NAMA would not proceed,” he stated.
Explaining the exemption for the aviation sector, Keyamo said: “The aviation sector plays a vital role in national development, driving trade, tourism, investment, and cultural exchange. While it has yet to realise its full potential in contributing to the nation’s GDP, we are committed to ensuring its progressive and sustainable growth.”
He continued: “This involves adopting emerging technologies, enhancing infrastructure, and investing in human capital to ensure safer skies and more efficient air transportation services. Despite last year’s directive to limit foreign travel, the President graciously granted an exemption for the aviation sector due to its importance.”
Keyamo added, “In December, a second memo was issued reiterating the previous travel restrictions, but I wrote to the President, requesting an exception for the aviation industry. The President recognised the need to prioritise safety in this critical sector and granted the exemption.”
