In a decisive move, President Bola Tinubu has initiated a significant shake-up within the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, leading to the dismissal and replacement of several Chief Executive Officers. The announcement, made by Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, reflects President Tinubu’s commitment to instilling world-class standards in Nigerian Civil Aviation, prioritizing consumer protection, and enhancing the well-being of passengers and other stakeholders in the sector.
The changes include the removal of Mr. Kabir Mohammed as the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), with Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku appointed as the substantive Managing Director. Similarly, Mr. Tayib Odunowo, former Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), has been replaced by Engr. Umar Farouk in the same role.
Engr. Akinola Olateru, the Director-General of the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), has been removed and succeeded by Mr. Alex Badeh Jr. Prof. Mansur Matazu, the Director-General of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET), has also been replaced by Prof. Charles Anosike.
In a move impacting the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Capt. Alkali Modibbo has been removed as the Rector, and Mr. Joseph Imalighwe appointed as the acting Rector, pending the appointment of a substantive Rector as per the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology Act, 2022.
Notably, the Director-General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Musa Nuhu, has been suspended to allow the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to conduct an unbiased investigation into his activities and those of other senior officials in NCAA. Capt. Chris Najomo has assumed office as the Acting Director-General of NCAA with immediate effect.
Additionally, President Tinubu has given approval for a meticulous process, overseen by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, to recruit a substantive Vice-Chancellor and other principal officers for AAAU. This comprehensive overhaul underscores President Tinubu’s commitment to ensuring efficiency, transparency, and excellence within the aviation sector.
