ABUJA – The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, has hailed the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) for its resilience, dedication and commitment to safety, security, innovation and consumer satisfaction in Nigeria’s aviation sector.

Keyamo applauded the remarkable transformations so far recorded by the NCAA which included; enhanced supervisory measures, policies formulation, safety and security oversight, robust legislative and regulatory frameworks, advancements in air traffic management, development, expansion and certification of airports, accurate meteorological services, timely accident investigations, manpower development and indeed the growth of indigenous airlines.

He gave the commendations at the recent awards night to mark the authority’s 25th anniversary in Abuja.

He said that these achievements were not without challenges, but praised the efforts of the past administrations and the support of President Bola Tinubu under the Renewed Hope Agenda, the five Focus Areas by the ministry, industry stakeholders,regional and international civil aviation bodies,Private sectors among others, stating that the sector had reached new heights.

“Tonight affords us the opportunity to recognise and honour some of those visionaries, past and present, who have contributed tirelessly to building an aviation industry that meets and exceeds global standards.

“The awards to be presented this evening symbolize excellence, dedication and an unwavering spirit of Public Service. To all the awardees, your hard work hasn’t gone unnoticed.

“I hope this will serve as a constant reminder and motivation to others to continue to strive for greater achievements in the interest of the overall public. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the recipients.”

Speaking on the sectors contributions to the country’s economic growth, Keyamo emphasised that aviation was a trade, tourism, investment and cultural exchange facilitator.

“The aviation sector without a doubt, remains a pillar of national development, facilitating trade, tourism, investment, and cultural exchange. Whilst it is yet to realise its true potential in terms of contribution to our nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), we must renew our commitment to ensuring a more progressive, sustainable, inclusive, innovative and prosperous aviation industry.

“This necessitates the continuous adoption and integration of emerging technologies, enhancing infrastructure, and investing in human capital development to keep our skies safer, secure and air transportation services; cohesive and efficient.

“In essence, I encourage you all not to rest on your laurels, you must remember that the reward for hard work is indeed more work.”

While congratulating the Nigeria CAA, the minister pledged committment to supporting the initiatives that will further elevate the aviation sector and ensure that infrastructure and transportation are enhanced as enablers of growth in line with Priority 5 (five) of the Presidential Priorities.