The Nation Newspaper

Category: Aviation

  • It’s turbulent but not dangerous, by Captain Evarest Nnaji

    It’s turbulent but not dangerous, by Captain Evarest Nnaji

    As we mark International Civil Aviation Day, it is important to reinforce the fact that aviation remains the most reliable, effective, efficient, and safest mode of transportation in the world. Air turbulence may feel uncomfortable, but it is a normal part of flight, one for which aircraft are designed and pilots are expertly trained.

    Air Turbulence remains one of the most misunderstood aspects of air travel. For many passengers, any sudden movement in flight can trigger anxiety. Yet, within the aviation industry, Air turbulence is well-studied, well-managed, and, contrary to public perception, rarely a threat to the safety of an aircraft.

    What causes air turbulence?

    Air turbulence is caused by rough air pockets encountered during a flight. Rough air pockets are derived from air with poor molecules. When an air pocket contains rich air molecules, the sky is clear and devoid of clouds. Clouds form when atmospheric conditions in a section of the sky collect or attract interference components in the form of moisture, mist, fog, smog, steam, dew, condensation, convection, haze, vapour, etc.

    The introduction of any or more of these elements into the atmosphere reduces the molecules in the air and creates visible air pockets known as clouds.  Clouds, when formed by the earlier mentioned interference components, then have poor air molecules which, in turn, will not be strong enough to warrant the smooth flow of rich air over an aircraft’s airfoils (wings), thereby causing turbulence.

    When clouds form, they contour into different shapes and structures, giving them divergent patterns. Different clouds are named after their shapes and strengths, such as Stratus, Stratocumulus, Cumulonimbus, Nimbostratus, Altostratus, Altocumulus, Cirrus, Cirrostratus, etc.

    A more troublesome source of air turbulence in flight is thunderstorms.

    A thunderstorm is a weather system that includes lightning, thunder, heavy rain, strong winds, and sometimes hail. It can form from large towering cumulonimbus clouds, and can also form rapidly over an adiabatic temperature change rate in rising unstable air.

    There are four main types of thunderstorms: light, moderate, severe, and extreme thunderstorms.

    Severe and extreme thunderstorms appear scary and worrisome, but aircraft do not fly through them. Pilots and air traffic controllers avoid them using Radar, Weather reports, and Satellite data.

    There is also the Clear Air Turbulence (CAT) that can form at any altitude, high or low. CAT has no visible pattern. Therefore, pilots can run into CAT without adequate preparation or forewarning, causing sudden jolting turbulence in flight. But the industry has developed a mechanism known as PIREP, which enables the first pilot to encounter CAT to make a certain immediate pattern of report, letting other aircraft on the route or in the region to prepare for it.

    Aircraft design capability:

    Modern aircraft are structurally designed to handle very well all forms of possible air turbulence.

    Each aircraft model’s wing-structure, at the design stage, underwent a bench test usually stronger than anything such aircraft can ever encounter in real bad weather flight conditions before certification by the FAA and or EASA for commercial production and use. This certification is a requirement without which such a model will never fly in America or European airspace, and by extension, the world over.

    So, your aircraft may shake, dip, rock, and rattle in flight, but it will never fall out of the sky due to air turbulence. In addition, pilots are trained to navigate air turbulence safely.

    How do passengers handle air turbulence?

    Realistically, the main danger passengers can encounter in air turbulence is the sudden jolts that can cause people to fall or hit their heads on cabin consoles.

    Another danger can result in movement within the cabin, which can move the Centre of Gravity (CG) limit of the aircraft, depending on the size of the aircraft and the amount of movement. Such movements can affect a pilot’s control input and judgment, causing the aircraft not to respond the way the pilot had mastered it.

    But all this can be completely avoided by simply ensuring you are seated with your seatbelt fastened. So, stay calm, keep your seatbelt fastened, the aircraft is built to withstand it, is the rule of thumb. So next time your flight encounters turbulence or a rough patch of air, remember:

    It may be turbulent, but it is not dangerous.

    Captain Evarest Nnaji is both FAA (USA) and NCAA (Nigeria) licensed pilot, and the Group Chairman of OAS Helicopters, a leading conglomerate in Nigeria’s oil and gas aviation sector, as well as an astute businessman and philanthropist.

  • Senate invites Keyamo over rising airfares

    Senate invites Keyamo over rising airfares

    The Senate yesterday summoned the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), alongside key industry stakeholders for an urgent meeting.

    The summons followed widespread public outcry over the sharp rise in domestic airfares.

    During plenary yesterday, the senators decried the rise in the prices of airfares on major routes, including Abuja–Lagos, Abuja–Enugu, and Abuja–Ilorin, saying these have surged to between N400,000 and N650,000, a range many Nigerians can no longer afford.

    In its resolutions, the Senate: “Condemned the sudden and excessive rise in airfares nationwide, mandated the immediate summoning of all relevant aviation stakeholders.

    “Called for urgent measures to prevent exploitation and ensure affordable travel during the yuletide season.

    “Directed aviation committees to present recommendations at the next plenary”.

    Presenting the motion, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Aviation, Abdulfatai Buhari (Oyo North), stated that preliminary investigations indicated a growing number of Nigerians were unable to travel due to the drastic fare hikes.

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    “Mr. President, from Abuja to Lagos is now between 400,000 and 650,000 naira. Abuja to Enugu is about 500,000. Even Abuja to Ilorin is around 450,000,” he told the chamber.

    The committee chairman noted that with Christmas fast approaching, it had become necessary for the Senate to intervene to ease the financial burden on citizens.

    He added that while it had begun informal engagements with airline operators, no formal meeting had yet been held.

    The committee urged the Senate to summon all major aviation stakeholders, including airline owners and regulatory agencies, to explain the fare increase and propose immediate relief measures.

    Senator Peter Nwebonyi (Ebonyi North) said a flight which previously cost N150,000 to Enugu had jumped to N500,000, while another ticket from Lagos to Abuja was purchased at N560,000.

    Senator Solomon Adeola (Ogun West) noted that airline operators had already received multiple concessions, particularly on spare parts, and should therefore be held accountable for the current price surge.

    While Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (Abia North) attempted to justify the increases, citing rising operational costs, inflation, expensive spare parts, and forex challenges, many other lawmakers insisted that the fares represented exploitation.

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio said: “The minimum wage is N70,000. A civil servant would need to save six months’ salary to afford a one-way ticket. This is glaring exploitation.”

    Akpabio added that no corresponding increase in airport levies or aviation service charges could justify a 200–300 per cent spike in airfares.

    Following an extensive debate, the Senate resolved to summon all key stakeholders in the aviation sector, including the Minister of Aviation, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), and airline operators, for an emergency meeting this week.

    The Red Chamber also urged the Minister of Aviation to “rise to the occasion” and curtail what it called an “unwarranted extortion”.

    The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Aviation was instructed to notify all stakeholders and ensure the emergency meeting is convened without delay.

  • Pilots training gets major boost as IBUAM partners Auxano Aviation to purchase 30 Jabiru aircraft

    Pilots training gets major boost as IBUAM partners Auxano Aviation to purchase 30 Jabiru aircraft

    The Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management (IBUAM) has taken a bold step to further strengthen pilot training in Nigeria by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Auxano Consulting Nigeria Limited, operating as Auxano Aviation, for the purchase of 30 Jabiru J430 training aircraft. The agreement is designed to expand the university’s aviation training capacity and support the development of skilled aeronautical professionals in the country.  

    The signing ceremony took place on Thursday during the Nigeria International Airshow event at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport Abuja.  

    At the signing ceremony was the Founder and CEO of IBUAM, Isaac Balami and the Vice Chancellor who is a seasoned professor, AVM (Rtd) P.O Jemitola. 

    The MoU signing was also witnessed by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Kayamo, who said that with the signing of the MoU and other activities, the airshow is considered to be the best ever held on African soil.  

    Under the terms of the MoU, Auxano Aviation, an authorized distributor of Jabiru Aircraft in Nigeria will deliver the aircraft in structured phases, supplying 10 aircraft every year and completing the full delivery of all 30 units within three years. The partnership is also expected to advance research, flight operations training, and general aviation development nationwide.

    The MoU outlines Auxano Aviation’s responsibilities, which include providing aircraft registration support, airworthiness documentation, initial spares, tools, and handbooks. The company will also offer familiarization training for IBUAM instructors and maintenance personnel, alongside periodic technical oversight and access to Jabiru-approved parts and services.  

    Speaking during the signing, IBUAM VC, Prof. Jemitola, said the acquisition represents a bold and strategic investment in the future of Nigeria’s aviation workforce.

    According to him, “This partnership marks a significant boost to our training capacity. With 30 modern training aircraft coming in phases, IBUAM is positioning itself as a leading centre for world-class pilot training in Africa.”  

    He emphasized that the phased delivery model provides stability and ensures the institution can expand its training operations sustainably.

    Also speaking, the university founder, Isaac Balami said, “Receiving 10 aircraft every year allows us to scale progressively and maintain high safety and operational standards. It ensures that our students have consistent access to functional, and reliable training aircraft.”

    Balami also expressed confidence in Auxano Aviation’s technical depth and long-term support commitments.

    “Auxano Aviation is not only supplying aircraft; they are supplying expertise. Their technical support will help us maintain NCAA-compliant training and aircraft management practices,”he said. 

    In line with the MoU, IBUAM will deploy the aircraft strictly for student pilot training, aeronautical research, and flight operations programs. The university is required to maintain NCAA standards, ensure only qualified instructors and engineers operate the aircraft, and provide adequate hangarage, security, and operational infrastructure.  

    The MoU is effective immediately.

    Meanwhile, in part fulfillment of the agreement, two aircraft would be delivered to IBUAM in December this year while 10 would be received in 2026. Another set would be delivered in 2027 to complete the deal. 

    While some of the aircraft would be delivered in whole, others will be delivered in pieces and assembled by IBUAM and 7star GLobal Airlines, to form an additional training opportunity for students and other trainees. 

    The partnership is considered one of the largest aviation training aircraft acquisitions by a higher institution in Nigeria, an indication of a renewed drive to modernize pilot training and raise the bar in aviation education.

  • Gusau Airport to deepen investment opportunities — Official 

    Gusau Airport to deepen investment opportunities — Official 

    Zamfara state airport will open more investment opportunities in the state, Zamfara State Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Lawal Barau Bungudu, has said.

    The commissioner revealed this on Tuesday while speaking with journalists after inspecting the ongoing construction of the Zamfara International Airport.

    According to him, by the end of January 2026, the terminal buildings and other components of the airport would be completed, God willing.

    “I highly appreciate the quality of the work. Everything is going according to plan and, God willing, from what I have seen, both the terminal buildings and other sites will be completed by the end of January,” he said.

    Mr Bungudu added that the present administration is committed to delivering an international-standard airport that citizens will be proud of.

    “Our government under the leadership of Governor Dauda Lawal is constructing this airport to open more investment opportunities in Zamfara,” he stated.

    Also speaking during the inspection, Engineer Nicholas said the terminal buildings for both domestic and international operations were almost completed.

    He said the construction of the main fire station had reached 50 percent completion, while the control tower had reached 60 percent.

    “We are working to meet the contractual agreement. By February 2026, we are confident of achieving 90 percent completion.

    “The 3.4-km runway with shoulders has reached 80 percent. Things are moving well, and we hope to meet the deadlines,” he said.

  • NAAPE vows to ensure safety in aviation sector

    NAAPE vows to ensure safety in aviation sector

    The National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE) has promised to ensure safety in the aviation sector.

    The President of the Association, Capt. Bunmi Gindeh disclosed this in Abuja during the inaugural meeting of the newly elected National Executive Council of the association.

    Gindeh also pledged the commitment of the leadership of the association to transforming the professional landscape for pilots and engineers across Nigeria.

    He described NAAPE members as the backbone of flight safety, operational excellence, and technological advancement in Nigerian aviation.

    Gindeh, in a statement by the Spokesperson of NAAPE, Engr. Blessing Ahmadu noted that members of the association are the engine room tasked with the responsibility of protecting members’ interests, engaging constructively with stakeholders, fostering professional development, and ensuring institutional sustainability.

    He urged the council to operate with diligence, transparency, and a spirit of collaboration, prioritising the collective good over individual interests.

    He said, “The decisions we make in this council will directly impact not only our members but also the safety and efficiency of air travel in our nation,” Captain Gindeh declared, framing the national executive council’s work as a matter of national importance that extends far beyond internal union affairs.”

  • Two years on: If all govt agencies were NIMET

    Two years on: If all govt agencies were NIMET

    By Bonaventure Phillips Melah

      According to Dale Carnegie- “Leadership is not about a title or a designation but impact, influence and inspiration.”

      In order to initiate and implement policies and programmes for the wellbeing of citizens, governments across the world, create institutions and agencies, each with defined functions or roles. What is needed therefore, is for each arm of government, every institution, agency and department, every man or woman elected or appointed into leadership position, to make their own positive contribution into the collective social contract basket, so that the people can have meaningful life.

      The problem however, is that over the years, many ministries, departments and agencies, at both the federal, state and local government levels, as well as individual leaders, have failed to measure up to the expectations of the people, due largely, to lack of vision, and at other times, absence of political will, to take necessary decisions and as when due. Thankfully, there are some that are delivering topnotch services to the people; and that is where leadership comes in.

      Professor Charles Anosike was appointed Director General/CEO of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) about two years ago, precisely, in December 2023 by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, with a clear mandate to reposition the organization, in line with the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

      When he assumed office, Anosike was confronted with several institutional challenges including lack of leadership drive, slow and ineffective migration to modern technologies and a demoralized workforce that were denied series of entitlements and claims and therefore rightly agitative.

      Undaunted, Prof. Anosike had combined several ‘Cs’ of leadership- including competence, Courage, Consistency, Commitment, Character, Communication and Clarity to chart a new route of goal-setting and achievements for the organization. Leveraging digital innovations and forging strategic partnerships with local and international institutions, he has closed critical gaps and achieved remarkable milestones for the organization, so much so that, NiMet is currently rated among Grade-A performing agencies in the country.

      In addition, Anosike has held firm, a twin-chain that include drawing inspiration from President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda that hammers on providing best quality service to the people and submission to the strict supervisory approach of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Barrister Festus Keyamo, SAN, who does not brood indolence and would not suffer non-compliance to highest operational standards.

      The result is that NiMet has witnessed series of transformations that have ensured Nigeria’s weather services are more accurate, reliable, and impactful than ever before. The agency actively works with the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and other partners to improve communication of climate information to the public.

      The agency has also been playing crucial role in supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by providing essential data to combat desertification and restore land affected by drought, thereby establishing itself as an authority with clear understanding that its responsibilities go beyond daily weather reports, but include long-term climate and environmental protection.

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      Several partnerships have been entered into with sister government agencies, universities and research institutions within Nigeria and across the world. According to Prof. Anosike, these collaborations are vital in building a climate-resilient society and mitigating the impact of extreme weather.

      One of the most significant milestones of NiMet under Anosike is digitalization of operations. The agency has replaced its traditional manual flight folder system with an electronic flight folder also known as e-flight folder.

      This cutting-edge tool provides virtual access to a comprehensive suite of flight briefing applications, including weather reports, to pilots and airlines, thereby facilitating informed decision-making and enhancing safety protocols.

      For a better application of the envelop, NiMet in January 2025, conducted a two-day training exercise for airline operators on the e-flight folder app, a web-based tool that facilitates seamless interaction between airlines and NiMet, ensuring efficient management and delivery of flight folders electronically.

      With the knowledge acquired therefrom, both scheduled and non-scheduled flights can now be submitted and retrieved with remarkable ease. The system also incorporates user-friendly feedback mechanisms, allowing pilots and operators to share their experiences for continuous improvement.

      NiMet currently has a world-class weather presentation infrastructure which Anosike’s management upgraded to 4K resolution. The transformative initiative was achieved in partnership with global technology leader Chyron. The cutting-edge facility plays pivotal role in NiMet’s current weather presentation capabilities and therefore a critical milestone in the agency’s commitment to delivering world-class meteorological services.

      The agency has also completed full audit of dilapidated infrastructures and ill-conceived projects as well as unveiled the Aeronautical Meteorology Bulletin, a groundbreaking publication designed to promote a deeper understanding of meteorology in the aviation industry. The bulletin aims to empower airlines, pilots, air traffic controllers, and ground services to anticipate and manage weather-related challenges more effectively.

      Another area of pride for NiMet is the agency’s flagship product, the Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP), a vital early warning tool for farmers, livestock practitioners, and other sectors of the economy as well as the implementation of a co-production process, engaging relevant stakeholders in weather-sensitive sectors to craft informed, user-tailored weather forecasts. These forecasts are translated into Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, and Pidgin to enhance uptake and facilitate better planning and climate-smart decision-making.

      The agency also successfully launched a centralised Secure Aviation Data Information Service (SADIS) Application Programming Interface (API) platform aimed at boosting Aviation safety efficiency in Nigeria. It was part of the overall modernisation of the country’s aviation weather services with Nigeria becoming a trailblazer in Africa.

      The SADIS API, operated by the United Kingdom Met Office under the supervision of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), grants programmatic access to the World Area Forecast System (WAFS) datasets alongside other vital meteorological information.

      Not long ago, NiMet took a major step toward sustainable innovation with the deployment of electric vehicles (EVs) for airside operations across Nigeria’s five international airports — Lagos, Abuja, Kano, Port Harcourt, and Enugu. The development marked the first deployment of EVs in the nation’s aviation sector, positioning NiMet at the forefront of environmental transformation and operational efficiency which aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda on clean energy and climate resilience. The vehicles are capable of covering up to 200 kilometers on a single charge and are supported by dedicated charging stations at each airport.

      Furthermore, NiMet and other stakeholders in the aviation industry concluded nationwide Quality Management System (QMS) Engagement across major airports as part of efforts to strengthen service delivery, improve aviation safety, and sustain its ISO 9001:2015 certification for aeronautical meteorological services.

      In its quest to enhance and strengthen operational efficiency, accountability and strategic alignment across the agency, Prof. Anosike-led NiMet commenced internal transformation process with the introduction of the Balanced Scorecard Performance Management System to improve service delivery. At a meeting with management, Prof. Anosike said the Balanced Scorecard Performance Management System, is one of the global management tools organizations use to translate strategy into performance and noted the rising importance of intangible assets such as intellectual property, human resources, data, innovation, and brand reputation in today’s knowledge-driven economy.

      Recognising the strategic importance of synergy with other organisations and stakeholders to achieve set goals, NiMet has entered into series of partnership deals, a few of which include a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF), meant to drive climate-resilient agriculture across the continent.

      Also, NiMet, Sahel, IRI and Gates Foundation launched ‘ENACTS Initiative’ to strengthen access to climate data. The event held in Abuja under the Building Agricultural Systems Resilience in Nigeria Project financed by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and featured a Project Review Workshop with stakeholders across agriculture, health, water resources, blue economy and disaster management, among others.

      NiMet was also part of an Investor Roundtable hosted by the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX) to commemorate the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) Preparers Readiness Programme and strengthen partnerships and networking for agencies with similar objectives.

      NiMet also entered into partnership with the Kingdom of Morocco on AI-Based Weather Forecast, Early Warning Systems at an event where Anosike and his Moroccan counterpart, Mohammed Dhkissi, pledged to deepen bilateral cooperation between the two institutions, particularly in the area of Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven weather forecasting and early warning systems for enhanced climate resilience.

      To further bolster its ICT capacity aimed at greater efficiency, NiMet entered a strategic alliance with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) with Anosike saying the goal was to foster collaboration and explore strategic areas between the two key government institutions which aims to enhance the credibility of NiMet’s services.

      Simultaneously also, was the signing of MoU between NiMet Landmark University aimed at advancing meteorological research and deepening climate science education in Nigeria which seeks to enhance the collection and analysis of climate data and support initiatives that promote environmental resilience and sustainable national development.

      The above is even as a few days ago, the management of AKADEMIYA2063 paid a courtesy visit to Prof. Charles Anosike, to explore concrete areas of collaboration where the NiMet boss highlighted the agency’s priority to strengthen weather and climate services for national development and underscored the growing role of AI and big data analytics in enhancing NiMet’s operations while noting that NiMet already has staff with expertise in AI and machine learning who have developed models for data collection, analysis, and forecasting.

      While working tirelessly to reposition NiMet which has yielded remarkable results, Prof. Anosike’s management has taken several steps to improve the welfare of workers through prompt payment of the allowances and clams as well as settlement of inherited promotion entitlements, including outstanding minimum wage arrears owed to staff from 2019 to 2022.

      As severally testified by the workers and their Unions, NiMet under Anosike, has paid serious attention to capacity building of both management staff and the entire workforce with over 1,900 of them benefitting from several sponsored training and retraining programmes to keep them updated with modern trends, overall aim being to provide best quality service to the nation and Nigerians.

      The standing ovations being given to NiMet at several national and international gatherings as well as awards and accolades are part of the various testimonies of Anosike’s bold footprints at the agency.

      Within the past twenty-four months, Anosike has received several prestigious awards including “Best Federal MDA in Open Data Excellence” by Nigeria GovTech Public Service Awards 2025 which also decorated him with the ‘Distinguished GovTech Trailblazer’s Award;’ ‘Aviation Sector CEO of the Year 2024;’ the 2025 ‘African Public Sector Leadership Impact Award’ for his transformational leadership, organized by the African Leadership Magazine at an event held in Casablanca, Morocco, where Anosike was honoured alongside other notable dignitaries including serving presidents of two African countries and the MD/CEO of First Bank of Nigeria Plc. The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) also honoured Anosike with ‘Outstanding Mentorship Award.’

      Even with such inexhaustible list of achievements, Prof. Anosike, in his quest to further get NiMet to do more exploits for the benefit of Nigerian people as well as security of the nation, led a team of the agency’s management to a public hearing on Tuesday, July 22, 2025 with the aim of advancing reasons why the NiMet Act No. 29, 2022 should be amended.

      He said weather and climate have a direct and far-reaching impact on virtually every sector of the Nigerian economy – aviation, maritime, agriculture, construction, oil and gas, telecommunications, and disaster risk reduction, among others.

      According to him, although the NiMet Act was amended as recently as 2022 to strengthen the Agency’s legal and operational framework, the realities of implementation have revealed some gaps that hinder its full effectiveness. In particular, challenges remain in the areas of cost recovery, rulemaking, and compliance & enforcement.

      *Melah, a journalist, writes from Abuja.

    • Bayelsa acquires two aircraft

      Bayelsa acquires two aircraft

      The Bayelsa Government, yesterday, received one of its two newly acquired aircraft following  its inuagural flight to Bayelsa Airport in Yenagoa, Bayelsa Capital.

      The ATR-72/600 aircraft received the traditional water cannon salute on arrival from the fire trucks at the airport at about 10.40 a.m.

      Dignitaries on the inuagural flight included Governor Douye Diri, the immediate past deputy governor of the state, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John-Jonah, members of the state’s National Assembly Caucus, the Minister of State for Petroleum (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Dr. Sam Ogbuku, President, Ijaw National Congress, Prof. Ben Okaba and the National Chairman, Pan Niger-Delta Forum, Dr. Boladei Igali, among others.

      Governor Diri described the celebration as historic, saying it underscored his administration’s commitment to fulfilment of its promise to connect the people of the state to other parts of the country and the world by air. 

      He noted that the inauguration of the aircraft was a moment of deep gratitude and celebration for every Bayelsan as it marked a decisive step in strengthening the state’s aviation capacity and expanding its economic horizons.

      His words: “Six years ago, we promised the people of Bayelsa a future of air connectivity and opportunity. Today, that promise takes wing: Bayelsa is launching its own commercial air services.

      “On behalf of your Government of Renewed Hope for Assured Prosperity, I am delighted to commission the first of two ATR‑72/600 aircraft, each configured to carry 72 passengers and crew.

      “This achievement marks the beginning of a new era of connectivity for Bayelsa, bringing regular and reliable air services that fuel modern commerce and development, connecting businesses to new markets, and empowering our people to thrive.”

      Diri said the aircraft registered under the name Pioneer Airline be immediately changed to Air Bayelsa or Bayelsa Air before commencing commercial operations as it is state-owned and not a private concern.

      He added that the story of the aviation sector in Bayelsa State would not be complete without acknowledging the pioneering role of his predecessors, particularly the late Chief Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, who conceptualised an airport at the current location, and the immediate past Governor Seriake Dickson, who actualised the airport project.

      He also expressed appreciation to Premium Trust Bank, Pioneer Airline, and Bayelsa State House of Assembly for their support.

      Managing Director of Bayelsa Airport Limited, Air Vice‑Marshal Nelson Calmday (rtd), said the airline will not only operate the Lagos and Abuja routes daily but also other Niger Delta states. 

      Also, Managing Director of Pioneer Airlines, Captain Henry Ungbuku, said the company will embody the dreams and aspirations of the people of the state and Niger Delta in its operations.

      He praised Governor Diri for believing in him and the airline and for entrusting it with the responsibility of operating the state-owned aircraft, assuring that they will not let Bayelsa down.

      According to him, the new airline will operate daily nationally and across Niger-Delta region, stressing that the airline is a Bayelsa asset but will be operated by Pioneer Airlines on dry lease.

      The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri lauded Governor Diri and urged the state government to sustain the airline’s flight operations by ensuring that government officials pay for flying the aircraft. 

      The NDDC MD, Ogbuku described the acquisition of an aircraft by the state government as a welcome development, noting that it will connect the people of the state to other parts of the country, and pledged the willingness of the commission to partner the airline to contribute to its success.

    • VFS Global expands smart visa services for Nigerian group travellers

      VFS Global expands smart visa services for Nigerian group travellers

      Visa service provider VFS Global has introduced a wider range of technology-driven solutions designed to ease application processes for group and individual travellers across the country.

      The company, which manages visa and consular operations for several governments, says the rising number of sports teams, corporate groups, families and leisure travellers seeking more flexible and convenient services has prompted the expansion.

      “Our mission is to ensure that every traveller’s journey begins smoothly, supported by technology, security and trust,” said Siddharth Mehra, Chief Operating Officer for Sub-Saharan Africa. He noted that the firm had strengthened its offerings in Nigeria to provide what he described as flexible and reliable visa submission experiences.

      One of the increasingly popular options is the Visa At Your Doorstep service — referred to as On-Demand Mobile Visa for UK applications — which allows applicants to complete their documentation and biometrics from any preferred location. The service has been used by corporate teams, students and families seeking coordinated submissions.

      A spokesperson for Remo Stars FC, who recently used the service for a group booking, commended the process, describing it as “seamless and efficiently managed,” with staff providing adequate support for players during the submission.

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      VFS Global has also expanded its Premium Application Centres in Enugu, Kano, Ibadan and Port Harcourt, complementing its main centres in Lagos and Abuja. 

      The centres provide a quieter, more private environment for applicants and offer optional services such as document-scanning support, real-time notifications and courier return of passports.

      For travellers who require more flexibility, the firm offers Prime Time Appointments, enabling submissions outside regular working hours, including evenings and weekends. Its Premium Lounge service also provides a dedicated, personalised submission experience.

      According to the company, the solutions are supported by its Live Identity Processing technology, designed to ensure biometric accuracy and secure handling of applicants’ data.

    • NCAA probes in-flight altercation between VeryDarkman, Mr Jollof

      NCAA probes in-flight altercation between VeryDarkman, Mr Jollof

      The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has begun an investigation into the viral altercation between social media influencers VeryDarkman and Mr Jollof on United Nigeria Airlines Flight UN0523 at Asaba International Airport, Delta State.

      The authority has directed its officials to look into the actions of aviation security personnel, the flight crew, and other staff involved in handling the situation.

      NCAA spokesperson Michael Achimugu stated that the airline has yet to submit an official incident report, but the authority will do its part to investigate.

      He noted that the NCAA doesn’t have prosecutorial powers, but will advise the airline to blacklist the passengers and write to the Attorney General of the Federation and the Inspector General of Police to prosecute them.

      The incident has sparked criticism, with some calling for stricter action against unruly passengers.

      Achimugu emphasised that the NCAA will take appropriate action once the investigation is complete.

      Achimugu wrote on X, “First, aviation security must deboard and arrest both passengers and take them to the investigation room. After questioning, a decision is made to prosecute them. Prosecution is not instant. What could happen faster is the airlines placing the unruly passengers on a no-fly list, and even that would happen after management meetings, debates, and action.

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      “This event in Asaba just happened. I was boarding a flight out of Nigeria when the report from an X user got to me. As soon as I landed at the transit airport, I made calls. I have been informed that both passengers were deplaned (this is good) and taken to the interrogation room.

      “I have asked why the airline has not forwarded an incident report and I am told that they are presently in a management meeting. This is normal, too. Even abroad.

      “What I can assure you is this: the NCAA will do its part. Our officers in Asaba have been tasked to find and report the exact actions taken by aviation security, pilot, and other personnel. This may go beyond just the two passengers. How long did it take for security to arrive? How long did the incident last before the pilot called for security, if he did.

      “If the passengers were arrested, are they still in detention? If they were released, why? When all of these are decided, appropriate ramifications would be dished by relevant agencies.

      “I must note that the NCAA does not have prosecutorial powers. The authority, as with previous cases, would surely advise the airline to blacklist the passengers and write the Attorney General of the Federation, AGF, and the Inspector General of Police, IGP, to prosecute the unruly passengers.”

    • United Nigeria Airlines deboards VeryDarkman, Mr. Jollof after altercation at Asaba Airport

      United Nigeria Airlines deboards VeryDarkman, Mr. Jollof after altercation at Asaba Airport

      …NCAA condemns passengers’ behaviour

      United Nigeria Airlines has confirmed that an altercation broke out between two passengers, Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkman, and social media personality Freedom Okpetoritse Atsepoyi, widely called Mr. Jollof, during the boarding of Flight UN0523 at Asaba International Airport on Monday morning.

      In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Chibuike Uloka, the airline said both passengers were deboarded and handed over to airport security for further investigation.

      According to the airline, the action was taken in line with established aviation safety protocols and was necessary to guarantee the safety, comfort and security of other passengers and crew members on the flight.

      “United Nigeria Airlines confirms that an altercation occurred between two passengers, identified as Martins Vincent Otse ‘VeryDarkman’ and Freedom Okpetoritse Atsepoyi ‘Mr. Jollof’, during the boarding of Flight UN0523 at Asaba International Airport on the morning of 17 November 2025.

      “In full compliance with global aviation safety protocols, our crew responded immediately and professionally to de-escalate the situation.

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      “Both passengers were deboarded without delay to ensure the safety, comfort, and security of all other passengers and crew members. They were subsequently handed over to airport security for further investigation,” the statement added.

      “United Nigeria Airlines places the highest priority on safety and maintains a zero-tolerance policy for any conduct that threatens the security or well-being of passengers or crew. After all standard procedures were completed, the flight departed safely while the passengers involved in the altercation were still with the authorities”.

      The airline expressed its commitment to providing a safe, respectful, and secure travel experience across its network.

      Reacting to the incident, the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection of the NCAA, Michael Achimugu, stated that both passengers will face the full strength of the law.

       He explained that there is no tolerance for unruly behaviour aboard an aircraft, adding that no matter what led to the fracas, there is no excuse that makes it acceptable.

      Part of Achimugu’s reaction to the incident posted on his official X handle reads: “There is no tolerance for unruly behaviour aboard an aircraft. Both individuals will face the full strength of the law. It is even more shameful when one considers that both of them are partners in educating their millions of followers to avoid unruly behaviour.

      “While waiting for information (I have reached out to our staff for details now that I am on the ground), one wonders if the pilot had both passengers deplaned or if they were flown to the destination. If it were the latter, there would be consequences.

      “The actions of both men put the safety of all other passengers and the crew at risk. It also put the safety of the aircraft at risk.

      “The NCAA has exerted a lot of energy and resources in educating passengers about the dangers of unruly behaviour and its consequences.

      “In this case, no matter what led to the fracas, there is no excuse that makes it acceptable”.