News
NCAA Clarifies U.S. Delisting of Nigerian Airlines, Cites Lack of Direct Flights
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has responded to recent reports regarding the removal of Nigerian airlines from the list of those authorised to operate flights to the United States. This clarification was made in a statement by the NCAA’s Acting Director General, Capt. Chris Najomo, on Monday.
The delisting of Nigerian airlines, including notable carriers like Air Peace and United Nigeria Airlines, which had plans to fly routes to Washington and Houston, Texas, has caused significant concern.
The restriction came as a result of the loss of Nigeria’s Category One status certification, which is essential for airlines to maintain direct operations to the U.S.
However, Capt. Najomo provided clarity on the situation, explaining that the decision to delist Nigerian airlines was not linked to any safety or security deficiencies in the country’s aviation oversight system.
Instead, the delisting occurred because Nigerian airlines had not operated direct flights to the U.S. for two consecutive years leading up to September 2022.
“No Nigerian operator has provided service into the United States using a Nigerian-registered aircraft for two years before September 2022,” Najomo stated.
“As a result, it was expected that Nigeria would be removed from the list, just as other nations in similar situations were. The NCAA had been duly informed of this action back in 2022.”
Najomo further emphasised that Nigeria had undergone thorough safety and security audits by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
These audits found no Significant Safety Concerns (SSC) or Significant Security Concerns (SSeC), confirming that Nigeria’s aviation sector met international standards in these areas.
The acting director’s statement aims to address concerns and reassure the public that the delisting is purely an administrative consequence of airlines’ lack of recent operations to the U.S., rather than any fault or shortcoming in Nigeria’s aviation safety and security protocols.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has explained the reason behind the formation of the new opposition coalition led by the African Democratic Congress (ADC). According to Atiku, the coalition was created to defend Nigeria’s democracy from what he sees as growing authoritarian tendencies and the manipulation of elections under the current ruling party.
He emphasized that the alliance is not about political heavyweights like himself, Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, or Nasir El-Rufai battling for the 2027 presidency, but about safeguarding the country’s democratic future.
Atiku made it clear that the movement isn’t aimed at attacking President Tinubu, but rather focused on putting Nigeria first. “This isn’t about fighting Tinubu,” he said. “It’s about protecting democracy and making sure Nigerians come first.”
Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has urged the Super Falcons to give their all and bring home victory as they face hosts Morocco in the final of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat. With just 90 minutes standing between them and a record-extending 10th WAFCON title, the First Lady praised the team for their performance so far and encouraged them to finish strong.
In a video message shared on the Super Falcons’ official X account, she said, “My beautiful Super Falcons, congratulations on reaching the final. Your team spirit, dedication, and professionalism have been remarkable. You’ve become shining examples for young girls across Nigeria and Africa.”
She added, “As you take the field, may God grant you victory. Go and make us proud. Nigerians, including myself, are waiting to welcome you back with the trophy in your hands.”
Abia State recently welcomes new water project in Okwoyi Isieke Ibeku in Umuahia North LGA, for the first time in 130 years.
The project was carried out by the Abia State Ministry of Power and Public Utilities through the Abia Rural Water Supply And Sanitation Agency.
This project officially offered its residents clean and filtered water after many years of unclean water and unhealthy living.
The Abia State Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Ikechuckwu Monday, shared that this was a move to improve the living conditions of the residents and promote a healthy environment and living.
Mercy Eke Backs BBN’s Dede as Fans’ Favorite in Ongoing Reality Show Season
“Once They Blow, the Problems Begin”—Ubi Franklin Talks Industry Challenges
Ayra Starr Reacts to Dating Ban Rumors: “Does Ayra Starr Know About This?”
-
Sport16 hours agoAnthony Joshua Says He Might Retire in 2025 After 12 Years of Boxing
-
Sport16 hours agoRivaldo Says Rashford Will Do Well at Barcelona Once He Settles In
-
Sport16 hours agoGuardiola Says He Will Take a Long Break From Football After Leaving Man City
-
News16 hours agoAtiku Says Opposition Coalition Is to Protect Nigeria Not Fight Tinubu
-
Entertainment13 hours ago“No Man Deserves a Goddess Like Me” — GoodGirl LA Declares She’ll Never Marry
-
Entertainment12 hours agoAyra Starr Reacts to Dating Ban Rumors: “Does Ayra Starr Know About This?”
-
Entertainment12 hours ago“Once They Blow, the Problems Begin”—Ubi Franklin Talks Industry Challenges
-
Entertainment13 hours ago“Being a Lover Boy Feels Like a Crime” — BBNaija’s Tuoyo Speaks on Modern Dating