The Director General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Chris Najomo, has emphasized the need for a transparent and efficient procurement system to drive Nigeria’s aviation sector forward. Speaking at a procurement symposium in Lagos, Capt. Najomo, represented by the Director of Aerodrome and Airspace Standards, Engr. Godwin Balang, highlighted how procurement impacts airport infrastructure, air navigation services, safety regulations, and operational efficiency.
He stressed that aligning procurement processes with global best practices, including e-procurement, digitalization, and sustainable procurement, is key to attracting investment, enhancing service delivery, and maximizing government revenue. He also linked procurement reforms to President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the Minister of Aviation’s 5-Point Agenda, which prioritize economic prosperity, infrastructure development, and good governance.
Capt. Najomo called for strict compliance with due process, fair competition, and cost-effective contracts while strengthening public-private partnerships. He reaffirmed NCAA’s commitment to a procurement framework that eliminates financial leakages, curbs corruption, and ensures value for money.
NCAA’s Director of Corporate Services, Dr. Rebecca Aghadinazu, highlighted the need for internal capacity building and a better understanding of procurement roles to eliminate delays and inefficiencies. She noted that delays often stem from poor awareness of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) guidelines and stressed the importance of sensitization for all staff involved in the procurement process.
The symposium served as a platform to educate stakeholders on the principles of procurement management, equipping them with the necessary skills to optimize NCAA’s procurement processes and drive the sector’s transformation.
