The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has dismissed claims made by Senator Orji Kalu that some pilots in the country use illicit drugs, calling his remarks “misleading and unfounded.”
Kalu, who spoke on the floor of the Senate on Wednesday, October 15, had accused aviation authorities of failing to conduct proper checks on pilots.
He alleged that “some of them use Indian hemp,” blaming the NCAA and other regulators for neglecting routine health and drug tests.
“I feel that the authorities guiding these pilots, some of them are very lousy. I have on many occasions stopped flying because of the inadequacy of the pilots’ preparation. Some of them are not properly audited by the authorities,” Kalu said.
He further alleged that aviation staff were not being properly monitored.
“They are not doing it because it is dangerous, and you see them walking into the aeroplane, nobody checks their blood pressure, nobody checks anything, nothing, nothing,” he added.
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Responding in a statement signed by Director-General Chris Najomo on Thursday, October 16, the NCAA clarified that all pilots flying Nigerian-registered aircraft hold valid licences and current medical certificates, in line with aviation regulations.
“Contrary to the impression created, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority maintains a rigorous and internationally recognised system for certifying and monitoring the medical and professional fitness of all pilots operating in Nigeria,” Najomo said.
He explained that pilots undergo strict medical examinations covering cardiovascular, neurological, and psychological health.
On drug use, the NCAA said it conducts both random and targeted alcohol and drug tests, warning that any crew member caught under the influence faces suspension.
“The Authority will continue to uphold the highest safety standards and regulatory integrity in Nigeria’s aviation sector,” Najomo concluded.