On Tuesday, the Senate commenced a comprehensive inquiry into the nation’s aviation sector, aiming to address mounting public concern over safety standards, regulatory lapses, and the treatment of passengers.
In his statement, Chairman of the Senate Aviation Committee, Sen. Buhari Abdulfatai, conveyed his concern over recent incidents and highlighted the urgent need for an investigation into their circumstances.
“These developments require immediate and coordinated action to safeguard the integrity of the sector and restore public confidence. We will not tolerate procedural gaps or enforcement failures that undermine safety, professionalism, or public trust in our aviation system,” he stated.
Abdulfatai, known for his strong advocacy for industry transparency and consumer protection, noted the committee’s alarm over the rising number and severity of airline-passenger altercations that have gone viral and incited widespread outrage. He indicated that the committee, exercising its constitutional oversight authority, would summon key stakeholders from the aviation sector, including regulatory bodies like the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), airline operators, security agencies, and public interest groups.
He asserted, “The Senate Aviation Committee will ensure accountability at all levels. This is not a public relations exercise; it is about structural reform and real consequences for failures.”
The Senate’s decision to investigate comes amid increasing demands for a legislative overhaul of the aviation regulatory framework.
