NCAA suspends two pilots over safety breach in Abuja airport

Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has suspended two pilots from Value Jets over safety breaches at Abuja airport.

Confirming the incident, NCAA stated that the Authority has received reports concerning a serious breach of aviation safety protocols by a ValueJet pilot at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja (Domestic Terminal) on Tuesday, August 5, 2025.

According to a statement by Michael Achimugu, the Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, preliminary information indicates that the pilot in question commenced departure procedures from the designated bay without adhering to the mandatory pre-departure clearance protocols.

“This reckless action endangered the safety of ground personnel and other airport users, contravening established civil aviation regulations and international safety standards.

“The NCAA views this incident with utmost seriousness.

“Consequently, the Authority has taken immediate enforcement action by suspending the licences of the pilot, Captain Oluranti Ogoyi, and the co-pilot, First Officer Ivan Oloba, with immediate effect.

“This suspension will remain in place pending the conclusion of a full investigation into the incident.

“The Authority hereby reaffirms all stakeholders of its commitment to safety,” the statement noted.