NCAA Tasks Journalists On Objective Reporting

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has tasked journalists to ensure objectivity and accuracy while reporting activities in the aviation industry.

The regulatory body stated this in Abuja at a two-day training for media practitioners under the Abuja Transport and Aviation Correspondents’ Association (ATACA).

Speaking at the second edition of the media training, the director general of the NCAA, Capt. Chris Najomo, said accurate and objective reporting were important for maintaining the highest levels of safety, efficiency and compliance in aviation.

Represented by an assistant general manager of the public relations department, Mrs Uju Mbamadu, the DGCA, Najomo, while speaking at the  training titled; “The Role of Media on Initiatives and Innovation to Improve Aviation Safety and Regulation,” said, “As media professionals, your ability to accurately report on aviation matters begins with a solid grasp of the NCAA’s mandate.

“From the first edition, we have observed positive changes in news reporting from the aviation sector. Yes, we have. That is why we are motivated to continue this advocacy for accuracy in news writing this year. We commend your relationship with us.”

Also speaking, the workshop facilitator, Mrs Chioma Ubibi, urged journalists to be careful in their choice of headlines when writing any aviation story, noting that, this would help them avoid sensationalism and foster intelligent engagement with NCAA’s regulatory actions.

She further said NCAA’s core responsibilities include safety oversight, economic regulation, consumer protection and security collaboration.

Ubibi, while speaking on the structure of the NCAA, said “The NCAA is empowered by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Act, 2022, and operates in line with the Chicago Convention of 1944 and the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs).

“The NCAA is a parastatal under the Federal Ministry of Aviation but maintains functional and administrative autonomy in carrying out its regulatory responsibilities. Its directorates include Airworthiness Standards; Operations, Licensing and Training; Aerodrome and Airspace Standards; Air Transport Regulation; and Aviation Security.

“Other directorates are Public Affairs and Consumer Protection; Finance and Accounts; Human Resources and Administration; Corporate Services; Legal Services/Company Secretary; and Special Duties.”

Also speaking, the NCAA Media Consultant, Mr Toni Ukachukwu said the event was organised to boost journalists’ knowledge of aviation to improve reportage.