NCAA Cautions Against Reducing Ticket Sales Charge Amid Safety Concerns
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued a stark warning that proposed reductions to the 5% ticket sales charge (TSC) could jeopardize aviation safety and hinder its capacity to effectively regulate Nigeria’s aviation sector. This advisory comes as the National Assembly reviews a bill aimed at reallocating a portion of the TSC away from the NCAA in favor of the Nigerian Airspace Management Authority (NAMA).
Currently, the NCAA collects a 5% fee on ticket sales, which it redistributes among key aviation bodies, including NAMA, the Nigeria Meteorological Authority (NiMet), the Nigeria College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), and the Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB).
Michael Achimugu, the NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, emphasized in a recent briefing in Abuja that any reduction in the NCAA’s funding would directly impact its regulatory capabilities, potentially compromising passenger safety. He reiterated, “The NCAA needs more funding, not less. Reducing financial resources for regulators weakens safety oversight. Globally, successful aviation regulators are well-funded to uphold their responsibility for public safety.”
Achimugu further clarified that the NCAA already allocates a substantial portion of its ticket sales revenue to support other aviation entities. He noted that the 5% surcharge was initially designed to provide adequate financial backing for federal regulatory bodies.
“The rationale for establishing NAMA was to create a self-sustaining entity that would not rely solely on government funding,” he said. He added that while the NCAA was expected to receive governmental support, fees from ticket sales were introduced to minimize government financial liabilities. However, a significant portion of this revenue still goes to other organizations.
The Importance of Proper Funding for Safety Oversight
Achimugu stressed that adequate funding is critical for ensuring the continued training and qualification of aviation inspectors, who must be more skilled than the airline personnel they oversee. He emphasized the importance of keeping pace with advancements in aviation technology and updating staff training to align with international safety standards. “Thanks to the NCAA, Nigeria has maintained a strong track record in aviation safety and integrity,” he noted.
He asserted that the regulatory oversight provided by the NCAA has played a vital role in the country’s successful results in international aviation safety audits and the enhancement of passenger rights. He remarked, “Our performance in safety audits is a reflection of the NCAA’s commitment to aviation safety and safeguarding passenger interests.”
Minister’s Engagement with Stakeholders
Achimugu mentioned that the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has already initiated discussions with relevant stakeholders concerning the proposed funding alterations. He urged all involved parties to allow these discussions to unfold without escalating tensions in the media. “There is no need for further public statements aimed at swaying opinion while discussions are ongoing,” he advised.
NCAA Addresses Debt Claims
In a separate clarification, the NCAA dismissed allegations concerning debts owed to NAMA regarding unpaid statutory funds. Achimugu explained that any financial remittances would be overseen directly by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), thereby eliminating concerns over direct transfers from the NCAA.
“The NCAA does not make direct payments to other organizations. The CBN manages these transactions. Therefore, the issue of indebtedness does not arise,” he stated.
Call for Independent Revenue Flow
He further argued that government agencies with independent revenue-generating mandates should prioritize enhancing their fiscal sources rather than seeking increased shares of the NCAA’s statutory allocations. Ensuring the financial stability of the NCAA is essential for maintaining aviation safety, regulatory independence, and fostering public trust in Nigeria’s aviation landscape.
