The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has suspended the licenses of two ValueJet crew members following a violation of critical safety protocols at a major airport in the nation’s capital. The regulatory body confirmed the immediate suspension of pilot Captain Oluranti Ogoyi and First Officer Ivan Oloba while an investigation into the incident unfolds.
According to a statement released by NCAA Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection Michael Achimugu, the pilots allegedly bypassed mandatory pre-departure clearance checks before initiating takeoff procedures at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport’s domestic terminal in Abuja on August 5, 2025. Such protocols are designed to ensure coordination with air traffic control and verify flight readiness, serving as a cornerstone of global aviation safety standards.
“Preliminary findings indicate the pilot commenced departure from the designated bay without adhering to these essential procedures,” the NCAA said, emphasizing the gravity of the breach. The authority stressed that compliance with safety measures is non-negotiable, adding that the licenses were revoked with immediate effect to “allow for a thorough and unimpeded investigation.”
While no injuries or damage were reported, the incident has raised concerns about procedural adherence within Nigeria’s aviation sector. The NCAA reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing strict safety regulations, stating it “views this incident with utmost seriousness” and will take further action based on investigative outcomes. ValueJet, a domestic airline operating primarily within Nigeria, has not yet issued a public response.
Aviation analysts note that breaches of pre-departure protocols, though rare globally, can pose significant risks, including runway collisions or miscommunication with ground control. The incident underscores the NCAA’s role in maintaining Nigeria’s aviation safety record, which has seen improvements in recent years following upgrades to infrastructure and oversight mechanisms.
The suspension highlights the balancing act regulatory bodies face in addressing lapses transparently while preserving public confidence. International aviation agencies often collaborate on such matters, though the NCAA has not indicated whether foreign entities are involved in the probe. Updates are expected pending the conclusion of the inquiry, which will determine potential penalties or reinstatements for the crew members.
