Keyamo Shakes Up NCAA Leadership Amid Corruption Claims

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has reshuffled key directors at the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) amid rumours of serious corrupt practices within the agency.

The move follows allegations of inefficiency and compromised oversight in the Directorate of Airworthiness Standards, a critical department ensuring aircraft safety.

The reshuffle comes after the Nigeria Safety Investigation Board released reports on two major aircraft incidents in December 2025: a Hawker 800XP crash-landing at Kano’s Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport with eight on board, and a Cessna 172 crash at Owerri’s Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport with no fatalities. These incidents raised concerns about regulatory oversight.

Keyamo had confirmed awareness of corruption allegations against NCAA and vowed to investigate, saying he’d make results public. Less than a week later, the reshuffle was effected. Godwin Balang, formerly Director of Aerodromes and Airspace Standards, now heads Airworthiness Standards. Alhaji Ahmad Abba, ex-NAMA Special Duties Director, replaced Balang.

The Directorate of Airworthiness Standards ensures aircraft meet safety standards, handling certification, maintenance, and compliance with ICAO rules. It’s been under scrutiny following incidents and alleged irregularities, including approvals without technical scrutiny.

Sources say the move aims to tighten control over a department accused of laxity. A ministry source said, “The airworthiness department is where safety either stands or collapses. When leadership is changed at that level, it is rarely accidental.

Minister’s aide Tunde Moshood said the reshuffle is for “administrative effectiveness”, adding the corruption investigation is ongoing. “It has nothing to do with the complaints; sometimes you just must do some things.