Airport Reporters

  The Imperative of Rewarding Gallant Crime-Fighting Officers in Nigeria’s Security System By Richard Omole Nigerians have long lamented the country’s failure to fully recognise and reward citizens who distinguish themselves in service to the nation. While talent abounds across fields—from sports to science, arts to public service—many who demonstrate rare courage, particularly in the security sector, remain unsung. Nowhere is this neglect more glaring than among frontline officers in the police and armed forces. These men and women take extraordinary risks to keep society safe, sometimes paying with their lives, yet their sacrifices are too often forgotten once the dust of a successful operation settles. Security work in Nigeria comes with daunting risks. Officers face heavily armed robbers, kidnappers, smugglers, and terrorists. Some never make it home, while others survive with injuries that alter their lives forever. For those lucky enough to live, society rarely offers more th...

  When Uniforms Become Weapons: How Overzealous Lagos Security Agents Risk Sparking A Revolt  By Yusuf Babalola I have said it before, and I will say it again: if an uprising similar to those witnessed during the Arab Spring ever erupts in Nigeria, its epicentre will likely be Lagos. The reason is not far-fetched. In Lagos, the conduct of many uniformed security and traffic enforcement officials has become increasingly overzealous, high-handed, and exploitative. Instead of protecting and serving the people, they often treat motorists like subjects to be subdued, extorting them at will and humiliating them in public. But what these officials seem to have forgotten is that Nigerians of today are not the same as those before the COVID-19 era. Then, though tough, the economy was still somewhat bearable. Inflation, foreign exchange rates, and the cost of living were not as crushing as they are now. Today, Nigerians are stretched to their limits, struggling to survive in a climate o...

  NDLEA DECORATES SEVEN DEPUTY COMMANDERS IN BENIN CITY The Edo State Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Mitchell Ofoyeju, has decorated seven officers recently promoted to the rank of Deputy Commander of Narcotics by the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer, Brig. General Mohamed Buba Marwa (RTD) CON. The event took place at the Command's headquarters in Benin City and was marked by pride, joy, and a commitment to the ongoing battle against drug abuse and trafficking. The officers, who received their new ranks during the decoration ceremony, included Timothy Nku Odu, James Olusola Olarewaju, Akpabio Akpan, Anthony Odu Oko, Fidelis Nkazi Heijirika, Paul Akhazee and Mohammed Danmusa. Commander Mitchell, who presided over the event, charged the officers to see their elevation as a call to greater action in combating drug-related crimes and forging a safer environment for the country. “The elevation of these officers to the rank of Deputy Commander of Narcotics...

Customs Controller commissions equipment at SAHCO warehouse  In a strategic move to enhance trade facilitation and strengthen cargo security, the Controller of Customs in charge of Hajj and Cargo Terminal, Controller M.T. Awe, has commissioned an Advanced Cargo Screening X-ray Machine at the Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) PLC’s ultra-modern warehouse. The commissioning of this state-of-the-art equipment is aimed at ensuring faster, more efficient, and secure screening of cargo, thereby boosting Nigeria’s drive for seamless trade operations at the terminal. Speaking during the event, Controller Awe emphasized that the installation of the X-ray machine aligns with Customs’ mandate to simplify processes, promote transparency, and facilitate legitimate trade while safeguarding national security. The new equipment is expected to significantly reduce processing time, strengthen operational efficiency, and enhance stakeholders’ confidence in Nigeria’s cargo handling system. SAHC...

  NAAPE urges carriers to  train local pilots, engineers  The National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE) has called in indigenous carriers to create a window for capacity development for Nigerian young pilots and aircraft engineers in order to reduce the abuse of expatriate quota in the air transport sector. According to NAAPE President, Comrade Galadima Abednego, there must be a conscious effort by airlines to facilitate the type rating and training of young pilots and aircraft engineers to boost local talent retention. Speaking at a  briefing yesterday in Lagos to mark the 40th anniversary of the association and unveiling of its logo, Abednego hailed current efforts to establish Aircraft Maintenance Repair and Overhaul Facility (MROs), in the country , describing it as a move that will deepen local expertise. He said :During the Nigeria Airways era, you see that so much training was going on and this helped young people. But currently, airlines w...

  NAAPE urges  carriers  to train local pilots, engineers     The National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE) has called in indigenous carriers to create a window for capacity development for Nigerian young pilots and aircraft engineers in order to reduce the abuse of expatriate quota in the air transport sector. According to NAAPE President, Comrade Galadima Abednego, there must be a conscious effort by airlines to facilitate the type rating and training of young pilots and aircraft engineers to boost local talent retention. Speaking at briefing yesterday in Lagos to mark the 40th anniversary of the association and unveiling of its logo, Abednego hailed current efforts to establish Aircraft Maintenance Repair and Overhaul Facility (MROs), in the country , describing it as a move that will deepen local expertise. He said :During the Nigeria Airways era, you see that so much training was going on and this helped young people. But currently, airl...

 NAMA MD Flags Off Maiden Football Competition ..... Announces Salary Upgrade The Managing Director/Chief Executive of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Engr. Farouk Umar Ahmed, today officially declared open the maiden edition of the MD’s Median Football Competition at the Agency’s Corporate Headquarters, Abuja. In his opening remarks, Engr. Ahmed expressed delight at the impressive turnout and enthusiastic participation of staff, describing the event as a historic milestone for the Agency. According to him, this is the first sporting event of its kind in NAMA’s history, aimed at fostering unity among directorates and strengthening the bond between management and staff. “This competition is not just about football; it is about breaking barriers, promoting teamwork, and creating a platform for greater understanding and collaboration across the Agency. It has come to stay and will now be an annual event organized by the Directorate of Public Affairs and Consumer Affair...

 Nigeria,  Brazil Draw Closer as Air Peace Launches Historic Direct Service West and Central Africa’s largest carrier, Air Peace, has taken center stage in a new chapter of Nigeria–Brazil relations with the successful launch of its maiden Lagos–Brazil flight.  This milestone marks not only a breakthrough in aviation but also a powerful symbol of connectivity and enduring partnership between Africa’s largest economy and South America’s economic powerhouse. The significance of Air Peace’s expansion was underscored during a recent diplomatic meeting between the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the President of Brazil, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Aviation featured prominently in their dialogue, with both leaders identifying Air Peace as a central player in deepening economic, cultural, and social ties between the two nations. At a press briefing after the arrival of the inaugural flight at Murtala Muhammed International Airport Terminal 2, L...

  How Tinubu is attracting investors into Nigeria, by Keyamo, Onyema  Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo and the Chairman of Air Peace, Mr Allen Onyema yesterday highlighted efforts by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is attracting investors into the country saying the many shuttles of  the number citizen  is already consolidating the legacies of the administration. According to Keyamo, Tinubu should be commended for reaching out to many countries and their leadership, which are ready to do business with Nigeria. The minister said no investor will come if the President decides to just sit in the office expecting the quantum leap of investors who are already pouring in. Speaking in an interview when the Presidential contingents that accompanied Tinubu to Brazil arrived at the Lagos International Airport, aboard an Air Peace Boeing 777 aircraft, Keyamo Nigeria , has started harvesting the immediate fruit of the diplomatic / business interface. ...

  NSIB begins probe into derailed Kaduna - bound train  The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) says it has commenced investigation into the derailment involving a Kaduna-bound train where six persons sustained injuries. Director, Public Affairs and Family Assistance of the Bureau, Mrs Bimbo Oladeji disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday. It was gathered that the incident occurred at approximately 11:09 A.M on Tuesday, August 26, 2025 at KM 49 between Kubwa Station and Asham Station. The Bureau noted that current information available indicates six persons sustained injuries, with no recorded fatalities. It revealed that a go-team has been deployed to the site to gather evidence, engage relevant stakeholders, and commence investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident. The NSIB further said that the investigation will focus on identifying the direct and underlying factors that led to the derailment, with the aim of issuing safety recommendations to pre...

NAMA Receives NCAA Certificate for ATC Simulator The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has recorded another milestone in its drive to enhance air traffic management and capacity building with the official presentation of the Air Traffic Control (ATC) Simulator Certificate from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). While presenting the Certificate, Mr. Tayo acknowledged the vital contributions and untiring efforts of the Local Management at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA), as well as the Department of Technical Evaluation and Manpower Development under the Directorate of Air Traffic Control, in making the achievement possible. Receiving the Certificate on behalf of the Agency, the  MD/CE, Engr. Umar,  expressed his excitement and commended the collaborative efforts that led to the successful certification. He further emphasized that the ATC Simulator will play a critical role in strengthening manpower development, improving operational efficienc...

 Obi Cubana Commends United Nigeria Airlines Resumption of Warri Operations       United Nigeria Airlines has officially resumed scheduled commercial services into Osubi Airport, Warri, marking a significant comeback to provide safe and seamless flight operations to passengers in the route. The first flight of the day, UN0548, arrived from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on Monday, August 25, 2025, and was welcomed with a traditional water salute and a red-carpet reception for passengers. In addition to the Abuja service, subsequent flights between Warri and Abuja, as well as Lagos–Warri–Lagos sectors, all operated successfully, underscoring that United Nigeria Airlines is fully back at Osubi Airport and committed to sustaining seamless connectivity for air travelers. The flight was received on arrival by Osubi Airport Manager, Mr. Winston Ifeacho Egwuatu, who described the resumption as a welcome development for the city and its residents. He noted...

  Drug kingpin, 5 others in NDLEA custody over arrest of 3 Nigerians in Saudi Arabia   A 55-year-old drug kingpin Mohammed Ali Abubakar alias Bello Karama and five members of a syndicate operating at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA) Kano have been taken into custody by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) following the discovery that they are behind the shipment of illicit substances for which three innocent Nigerians who went on lesser hajj pilgrimage to the holy land were being detained in Jeddah for alleged drug trafficking. This was disclosed at a press conference addressed by the Agency’s Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi along with the Director of Assets and Financial Investigation, Dr. Abdul Ibrahim and Director of Prosecution and Legal Services, Theresa Asuquo, at the NDLEA National Headquarters in Abuja on Monday 25th August 2025. Explaining how the syndicate implicated three unsuspecting pilgrims in drug trafficking allegati...

Gateway International Airport set to revolutionize transport system The Ogun State Commissione The Ogun State Commissioner for Transportation, Engr. Olugbenga Dairo, has assured residents of significant improvements in transportation infrastructure, highlighting the Gateway International Airport (GIA) as a game-changer.  Dairo disclosed this in his office, while speaking with journalist on the recently obtained commercial flight certification by the Gateway International Airport authorised by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), marking a major milestone for the Prince Dapo Abiodun Led-Administration. He attributed this achievement to the Governor’s commitment to socio-economic development and industrialisation drive. "The journey began some three to four years ago with the construction, and now, all the major infrastructures required for a functional Airport have been put in place for the past few months. We have the longest run way,  Independent backup power faciliti...

 Air Peace Welcomes Fourth Boeing 777 strengthening its Global Expansion Nigeria’s largest carrier, Air Peace Limited, has received its fourth Boeing 777 aircraft, reinforcing its position as West and Central Africa’s aviation leader and deepening its international expansion plans. The wide-body Boeing 777-200 ER, bearing registration 5N-CEG, touched down at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, on Friday, August 22, 2025, at 3:32 p.m. from Teruel, Spain. The aircraft was greeted with a traditional water-cannon salute and a rousing reception led by the airline’s chairman, Dr. Allen Onyema; Executive Director, Obinna Onyema; Chief Operating Officer, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Olajide; alongside members of Air Peace’s management team. Speaking with the press, the airline’s spokesperson, Efe Osifo-Whiskey, noted that the arrival of the state-of-the-art aircraft aligns with Air Peace’s vision of global connectivity. Configured with a total of 312 seats, including 26 luxurious busines...

 APOSTLE SULEIMAN PLEDGES SUPPORT FOR NDLEA'S ANTI-DRUG ABUSE CAMPAIGN Apostle Johnson Suleiman, the senior pastor and general overseer of Omega Fire Ministries International, has pledged support for the Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in the campaign towards combatting drug abuse and promoting a healthier society.  The religious leader gave the assurance while receiving the Edo State Commander of the anti-drug Agency, Mitchell Ofoyeju, during an advocacy visit to the ministry's headquarters, Restoration City, in Auchi, Edo State. The visit aimed to seek the church's support in raising awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and mobilising communities for drug-free initiatives. The advocacy visit coincides with the ministry's ongoing International Women Conference 2025 with the theme, 'Let God Arise'. Commander Mitchell emphasised the vital role women play in shaping societal behaviours. “Women are the backbone of families...

  Foster advocates enforcement of passenger rights  Sindy Foster, Aviation analyst and Principal Managing Partner at Avaero Capital Partners has called for a new culture of balance and accountability in Nigeria’s aviation sector, urging that passenger rights must be matched with responsibilities if safety, dignity, and public trust are to be restored. Speaking at the Emergency Meeting of the National Civil Aviation Security Committee in Abuja, Foster said: “Rights without responsibilities create entitlement. And entitlement, unchecked, undermines safety and order. Passengers, airlines, regulators, and staff all have a role to play in creating a respectful and safe aviation system.” ⸻ Key Highlights • Passenger Rights: Nigeria’s Civil Aviation Regulations already guarantee refunds, compensation for denied boarding, and care in the event of disruptions. These protections place Nigeria in line with global norms. • Passenger Responsibilities: Foster emphasised that with th...