The Federal Government has announced plans to tighten aviation regulations to enhance safety and security in the sector.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, made this known while receiving the final report of the Ministerial Task Force (MTF) on Illegal Private Charter Operations and Related Matters.
Keyamo emphasized that tackling illegal private airline operations aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of promoting accountability across all sectors. He noted that many private jets and aircraft operate outside legal boundaries, particularly under the Private Non-Commercial Flight (PNCF) category, for unauthorized activities.
“The issue of illegal charter operations involves private jets and aircraft operating unlawfully under PNCF licenses. We are determined to enforce necessary actions to ensure a safer, more secure aviation ecosystem in Nigeria,” Keyamo stated.
He acknowledged the longstanding challenges in regulating private airline operations but assured that his administration would not relent in enforcing compliance.
“When I took office, I was told the problem was insurmountable and advised to ignore it, but I felt it had to be addressed,” he said.
According to the minister, some industry players had claimed that regulating illegal charter operations was impossible due to the influence of powerful individuals. However, he vowed to tackle the issue head-on, drawing from his experience in civil society and as a former EFCC prosecutor.
The task force, established in June 2024, was assigned to investigate illegal private charter activities and propose solutions.
Speaking on the findings, MTF Chairman, Capt. Ado Sanusi, revealed that loopholes in regulatory oversight had enabled illegal private charters, leading to security threats and revenue losses for the federal government.
“These include regulatory weaknesses, inadequate oversight, and security vulnerabilities. Additionally, illegal operations at the Abuja General Aviation Terminal (GAT) have been linked to money laundering and drug trafficking, as identified by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO),” Sanusi said.
The task force recommended shutting down and reorganizing the GAT to curb illicit activities. Other proposals include strengthening safety oversight, enhancing security protocols, and increasing transparency in private charter operations in line with global aviation standards.
Keyamo affirmed that the ministry would work closely with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to implement the MTF’s recommendations effectively.
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