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NCAA Suspends ValueJet Pilots Over Safety Breach At Abuja Airport
The authority described the action as “reckless,” stating it endangered the lives of ground personnel and other airport users,
Abuja, Nigeria– The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has suspended two ValueJet pilots following a serious breach of aviation safety protocols at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
According to a statement signed by Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, confirmed that the incident occurred at the domestic terminal when Captain Oluranti Ogoyi, the pilot of a ValueJet aircraft, began departure procedures from the designated bay without obtaining the mandatory pre-departure clearance.
The authority described the action as “reckless,” stating it endangered the lives of ground personnel and other airport users, in violation of both Nigerian civil aviation regulations and international safety standards.
As a result, the NCAA announced the immediate suspension of Captain Ogoyi and the co-pilot, First Officer Ivan Oloba, pending the conclusion of a full investigation into the incident.
The statement read, “The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) confirms that it 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.
“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.”
Achimugu stated that 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 Authorty hereby reaffirms all stakeholders of its commitment to safety,” Achimugu added.
