The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has suspended the licences of two ValueJet pilots, Captain Oluranti Ogoyi and First Officer Ivan Oloba following a serious safety breach at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, involved the flight crew initiating departure procedures without receiving the mandatory clearance from ground control.
In a statement signed by the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, the NCAA described the action as reckless and a direct violation of both Nigerian civil aviation regulations and international safety standards.
“This dangerous oversight endangered the lives of ground personnel and other airport users,” Achimugu stated. “The Authority views this incident with the utmost seriousness.”
As a result, the NCAA has taken immediate enforcement action by suspending the licences of both the captain and co-pilot. The suspension is to remain in effect pending the outcome of a full-scale investigation into the incident.
Reiterating its zero-tolerance stance on safety violations, the NCAA assured the public and aviation stakeholders of its continued commitment to maintaining the highest levels of safety across Nigerian airspace.
“The Authority hereby reaffirms its dedication to safety and regulatory compliance for the benefit of all air transport users,” Achimugu added.
