NCAA warns revenue cut could jeopardise aviation safety

Vanguard NigeriaIndependentCenter18 hr. ago

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has warned that proposed cuts to its statutory share of the Ticket Sales Charge (TSC) could harm aviation safety. The Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, emphasized that the NCAA relies on this charge to fund its regulatory functions, including training inspectors and maintaining safety standards. He criticized efforts by the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) to reduce the NCAA’s share of the five percent TSC, arguing that such a move would weaken regulatory capacity. Achimugu highlighted the importance of proper funding for inspectors to ensure they are better trained than the service providers they oversee. He pointed to Nigeria’s improved performance in international safety audits and passenger rights protections as evidence of the NCAA’s effectiveness. The Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, led by Festus Keyamo, is reportedly mediating the dispute.

Bias read (Center): While the issue involves a political dispute over funding between regulatory agencies, the article presents the NCAA's position without overtly favoring either side. It includes direct quotes from the NCAA representative and acknowledges the broader implications for aviation safety, without taking a

Premium Times NigeriaIndependentCenter20 hr. ago

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has expressed concerns that proposed funding cuts to its statutory share of the five percent Ticket Sales Charge (TSC) could jeopardize aviation safety and regulatory effectiveness. The National Assembly is considering a bill that would redirect part of the TSC to the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA). Currently, the NCAA collects the TSC and allocates funds to various aviation agencies, including NAMA, NiMet, NCAT, and NSIB. NCAA Director of Public Affairs Michael Achimugu emphasized that reduced funding would impair the regulator's ability to maintain safety standards and protect passenger welfare. He argued that adequate funding is crucial for maintaining skilled inspectors who can enforce safety protocols and keep up with technological advancements. The NCAA highlighted its role in improving Nigeria's performance in international aviation safety assessments.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the NCAA's concerns regarding potential funding reductions without overtly endorsing or opposing the legislative proposal. It provides balanced information about the current funding structure, the rationale behind the TSC, and the implications of possible changes. While the NCAA