The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has responded to allegations made by former Abia State Governor, Senator Orji Kalu, that some pilots in Nigeria engage in illicit drug activities, specifically Indian hemp. Kalu criticized the NCAA for lax oversight, claiming the authority hasn't done enough to monitor pilots and ensure safe flight operations.
NCAA's Response
The NCAA has denied these allegations, stating that its regulations strictly prohibit any crew member from operating an aircraft under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The authority conducts regular medical evaluations for pilots, including tests for substance abuse. These evaluations cover a range of health factors, including cardiovascular, neurological, psychological, and respiratory conditions ¹.
Key Points from NCAA's Rebuttal
- *Regular Medical Evaluations*: Pilots undergo comprehensive medical evaluations by NCAA-authorized medical examiners, which are further reviewed by the NCAA's in-house aero-medical team.
- *Random Drug Testing*: The NCAA conducts random and targeted drug and alcohol testing for crew members, with results admissible as legal evidence.
- *Ramp Inspections*: NCAA inspectors perform daily ramp inspections at airports, engaging directly with flight crews to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
Background of the Allegations
Senator Orji Kalu's allegations stem from his concerns about aviation safety in Nigeria. As a former governor and current senator, Kalu has been vocal about issues affecting the country's aviation sector. His claims about pilots using Indian hemp have sparked a heated debate about aviation safety and regulatory oversight ¹.
