NCAA, WFP sign pact to boost humanitarian air operations in Nigeria
From Faith Yahaya, Abuja The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to boost humanitarian air services
From Faith Yahaya, Abuja
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to boost humanitarian air services and strengthen emergency response operations across Nigeria.
The agreement, signed in Abuja yesterday, establishes a strategic framework to improve access to life-saving aid, particularly in hard-to-reach and crisis-affected areas.
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The Director-General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Capt. Chris Najomo described the partnership as a shared commitment to humanitarian service.
Najomo, who highlighted aviation’s vital role in crisis response, noted that the Authority will deepen operational coordination, streamline regulatory support for humanitarian flights, and promote capacity-building efforts.
He added that the initiative reinforces Nigeria’s growing role as a regional hub for humanitarian air operations in West Africa.
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WFP Deputy Country Director, Mr. Edouard Thiam, stated that the agreement will enhance the ability of both organisations to deliver timely assistance, reach vulnerable populations, and support recovery efforts with greater efficiency.
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The Director of Special Duties, Dr. Augustina Erah, said challenges like fragmented access, delayed clearances, and inconsistent charges have hindered humanitarian missions.
She, however, added that the MoU would help to streamline processes and enhance the effectiveness of emergency response operations.
Some officials from both organisations present at the signing include: NCAA Director of Legal Services and Company Secretary, Barr. Mary Tufano-Eche, Director of Airworthiness Standards, Engr. Godwin Balang and WFP officials, George Oguta, Dongwook Choi, Matthew Omata, and Ms. Chi Lael.
