The House of Representatives Committee on Disability Matters has called on the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to fully enforce the provisions of the Nigerians with Disabilities Act, 2018, within the aviation industry.
The Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Dr. Bashiru Dawodu, issued the directive during an oversight visit to the NCAA headquarters in Abuja. He emphasized that the Committee is tasked with ensuring compliance with the Act, which mandates inclusion in employment, accessibility, rehabilitation, and the protection of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in programmes, projects, and annual budgets.
Dr. Dawodu commended the NCAA’s efforts and described the Authority as a responsible organization. He noted that as the regulatory body, the NCAA is mandated to ensure compliance with the Act across all aviation operators, including sister agencies and airlines.
“You are responsible for enforcing PWD regulations in the aviation industry,” he stated.
Welcoming the Committee, the Director General of Civil Aviation, Capt. Chris Najomo, represented by Capt. Donald Tonye Spiff, Director of Operations, Licensing, and Training, assured that the NCAA is nondiscriminatory and disability-friendly. He noted that the Authority has employed persons with disabilities and conducted accessibility audits on its buildings, implementing necessary corrections.
Also speaking, the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr. Michael Achimugu, reaffirmed NCAA’s commitment to inclusiveness. He explained that the Authority had conducted a risk assessment and is implementing strategies to improve accessibility and support for PWDs.
Since Capt. Najomo assumed office, the Authority has consistently supported disability-related programmes, reflecting his people-focused leadership.
During the visit, various directorates of the NCAA briefed the Committee on their compliance with the Act, showcasing the Authority’s ongoing efforts to promote inclusivity in the aviation sector.
