Chris Najomo, analysts say. At the centre of the recognition was Capt. Najomo himself emerged as one of the night’s most celebrated figures, receiving two major honours: Aviation Agency CEO of the Year and a Lifetime Achievement Award.

Since assuming office, Najomo has driven a series of reforms aimed at enhancing efficiency and reducing bureaucratic bottlenecks within the NCAA. One of the most notable changes has been the significant reduction in the timeline for obtaining an Air Operator Certificate (AOC). Previously a lengthy process that could take years, certification can now be completed within a matter of months—an achievement widely praised by industry operators seeking a more business-friendly regulatory environment.

Equally impactful has been the Authority’s push toward digitisation. Under Najomo’s direction, the NCAA has begun automating several of its processes, starting with the Aero Medical Licence. This transition marks a broader commitment to leveraging technology to improve service delivery, transparency, and accountability.

As a result, stakeholders increasingly view the NCAA as a benchmark for regulatory innovation within Nigeria’s aviation ecosystem. Beyond the Director-General, other key figures within the Authority were also recognised for their contributions. Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr.

Michael Achimugu, received the Aviation Agency Director Award for his role in strengthening passenger rights enforcement and elevating the visibility of consumer protection initiatives. Achimugu’s department has undergone a notable transformation in recent years. Once considered a relatively low-profile unit, it now plays a central role in driving accountability within the aviation sector.

Through proactive complaint resolution, increased public engagement, and strategic use of social media platforms, the department has improved communication between the Authority and the flying public. This shift reflects a broader institutional emphasis on responsiveness and service excellence. Similarly, Dr. (Mrs.) Anastasia Gbem, Director of Human Resources and Administration, earned recognition for her contributions to organisational leadership and workforce development.

Her efforts have focused on strengthening internal capacity, fostering professionalism, and aligning human resource practices with global standards. The NCAA’s institutional achievements were also prominently acknowledged. Among the awards received were honours for innovation and service delivery, including recognition for the Authority’s SMS Pro platform.

Additional accolades highlighted excellence in consumer protection, customer service delivery, passenger front desk information services, and ease of doing business. These recognitions collectively point to a regulatory body that is not only reforming internally but also delivering measurable improvements in its engagement with stakeholders and the public. Reacting to the awards, Capt.

Najomo attributed the successes to collective effort and strong policy support from the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development. He specifically acknowledged the role of the Minister, Mr. Festus Keyamo, in providing the enabling environment for reforms to take root.

According to him, clear policy direction and institutional backing have been critical in accelerating progress across the aviation sector. He described the awards as a reflection of “collective commitment and reform-driven progress,” emphasizing that the achievements extend beyond individual recognition to the resilience and dedication of the entire NCAA workforce. Najomo also commended the organisers of the awards, FCI International Limited, for recognising excellence within the industry and encouraging continuous improvement.

In a goodwill message delivered on behalf of the Minister by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Mahmud Adam Kambari, the Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing reforms in the aviation sector. The message highlighted investments in infrastructure, policy development, and institutional strengthening as part of a broader strategy to reposition aviation as a key driver of economic growth and national development. These efforts are aligned with global best practices promoted by leading international bodies such as the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Air Tr