The Coalition for Good Governance in Africa (CGGA) has expressed its support for Capt. Chris Ona Najomo, the Director-General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), highlighting his effective leadership and reforms aimed at enhancing safety and attracting investment in the aviation sector. The coalition's president, Mohammed Kudu, made this known in a statement released on Friday, emphasizing that Najomo's tenure has brought measurable improvements in safety oversight and consumer protection.

CGGA acknowledged that the challenges facing the Nigerian aviation industry are complex and cannot be attributed solely to Najomo. Kudu urged all stakeholders, including airlines, airport operators, and government agencies, to adopt a collaborative approach rather than engaging in blame games. He stated, "Our assessment of Capt. Chris Ona Najomo's stewardship shows a regulatory leadership that is focused on strengthening the systems within its mandate."

The coalition's review of Najomo's time at the NCAA pointed to significant progress in regulatory efficiency and investment conditions, noting his extensive experience in the aviation industry, which spans over four decades. Kudu highlighted Najomo's efforts in aircraft financing, which have been crucial in reassuring global investors about the viability of Nigeria's aviation market.

In April, during the Nigeria Aircraft Acquisition and Investment Summit, Najomo underscored the importance of capital, confidence, and capacity as essential pillars for the growth of the aviation sector. He reaffirmed the NCAA's commitment to international frameworks such as the Cape Town Convention and the IDERA framework, which are designed to facilitate aircraft acquisition and financing.

The CGGA warned against allowing legitimate concerns within the industry to escalate into confrontations that could hinder progress. Kudu called for a constructive dialogue among all parties involved, stating, "The aviation industry needs a collaborative approach at this stage. Stakeholders have every right to raise concerns and demand accountability, but such engagement should be constructive and directed towards solutions."

The coalition believes that the ongoing reforms by the Federal Government, alongside Najomo's regulatory actions, should be given a chance to yield positive outcomes for the aviation sector. They emphasized that the interests of the travelling public and the long-term development of Nigerian aviation should take precedence over individual or institutional disputes.

CGGA concluded by urging all stakeholders to unite and support the positive steps being taken, advocating for a focus on meaningful improvements in the aviation landscape of Nigeria. "We call on all stakeholders to sheath their swords and allow the positive steps being taken by the administration to cascade into meaningful gains for the country," the statement read.