ABUJA: The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority NCAA has suspended the licenses of a ValueJet pilot and co-pilot following a significant safety violation at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
In a statement signed by the NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, the authority confirmed that the incident occurred at the 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,” the statement said.
The NCAA described the pilot’s actions as “reckless,” stating that they “endangered the safety of ground personnel and other airport users.”
The authority further noted that the actions were a clear violation of established civil aviation regulations and international safety standards.
As an immediate enforcement measure, the NCAA has suspended the licenses of the pilot, Captain Oluranti Ogoyi, and co-pilot, First Officer Ivan Oloba.
The suspension will remain in effect until the conclusion of a full investigation into the incident.
The NCAA concluded the statement by reaffirming its commitment to a strong safety culture and assuring all stakeholders of its dedication to maintaining aviation safety.
