Inauguration of Task Force
On Thursday in Abuja, the Federal Government inaugurated a Ministerial Task Force to tackle illegal private charter operations. Minister of Aviation Festus Keyamo announced the task force’s establishment and highlighted its role in inventorying PNCF and AOC holders.
Objectives and Responsibilities
Keyamo explained that the task force aims to determine why illegal charters persist despite regulatory controls. Furthermore, the committee will call in all professional licenses of pilots and crew to verify their authenticity and validity. It will also recommend additional measures and sanctions to regulatory agencies to address these illegal operations effectively.
Selected Members
The minister assured that the task force members were carefully chosen from the aviation industry for their high repute and integrity. Key figures include Capt. Ado Sanusi as Chairman, Capt. Roland Iyayi as Vice Chairman, and the Director of Air Transport as Secretary.
Addressing the Crisis
Keyamo emphasized the need for a collective effort to restore confidence in the aviation industry. He noted that illegal charter operations undermine the efforts of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and other regulatory bodies. These illegal operations result in significant financial losses and raise serious security and safety concerns in the aviation sector.
Response to Security Threats
Keyamo revealed that the National Security Adviser had alerted the ministry about increased money laundering and drug trafficking through private aircraft. This alarming trend prompted the decisive action to form the task force, aiming to curb these illicit activities and ensure every flight adheres to the highest safety and legality standards.
Commitment to Change
Expressing optimism, Keyamo reiterated his commitment to enhancing the aviation sector through safety, infrastructure support, local operator assistance, human capacity development, and revenue generation. Capt. Ado Sanusi, the task force chairman, pledged to achieve all objectives efficiently and effectively.
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