Nigerian Aviation DG Sounds Alarm on Widespread Fraud, Calls for EFCC Intervention

The Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Chris Najomo, has raised serious concerns about a surge in fraudulent activities within Nigeria’s aviation industry. Najomo believes this fraud poses a direct threat to aviation safety, economic stability, and investor trust. He made this plea during a courtesy visit to the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede.

Najomo highlighted that fraud and money laundering often occur during high-value transactions, such as aircraft purchases, leasing agreements, foreign maintenance contracts, and the procurement of essential safety equipment.

A major issue he brought to the EFCC's attention is the non-remittance of the mandatory 5% Ticket Sales Charge (TSC) and Cargo Sales Charge (CSC) by certain commercial airlines. The NCAA relies on this revenue to fund its safety oversight and operational activities. The DG noted that some operators deliberately under-report their earnings, manipulate ticketing systems, or divert funds, which sabotages the NCAA's ability to regulate the industry effectively.

Furthermore, Najomo pointed out the problem of illegal charter operations that are often disguised as private flights, which involve unregulated financial flows. He stressed the need for the EFCC's financial intelligence capabilities to help unmask these fraudulent activities. The DG stated that the EFCC's intervention is crucial in investigating cases of suspected withholding, diversion, or misappropriation of funds.