NCAA fires back at Orji Kalu over pilots’ indian hemp allegations

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has strongly rejected allegations by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu that Nigerian pilots use Indian hemp and other drugs while on duty.¹ The NCAA called the claims “inaccurate,” “not factual,” and “gravely damaging” to the country’s aviation industry.²

NCAA’s Rebuttal

The NCAA, through its Director General, Captain Chris Najomo, defended its safety oversight processes as rigorous and in line with global standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).³ The authority refuted Senator Kalu’s specific claims by highlighting the following:

• Mandatory Medical Certificates: The NCAA stated that no pilot can operate a Nigerian-registered aircraft without a valid pilot’s license and a current medical certificate.⁴ These certificates require a new series of medical tests for renewal every 12 months for pilots under 40 and every six months for those 40 and older.⁵
• On-the-Spot Drug Testing: The NCAA confirmed that it conducts on-the-spot alcohol or drug tests when there is a “reasonable suspicion” of intoxication.⁶ Additionally, it is authorized to perform random and unannounced testing on crew members.⁷
• Daily Ramp Inspections: Beyond medical checks, NCAA inspectors conduct daily ramp inspections at airports nationwide.⁸ These inspections involve direct engagement with flight crews to verify their licenses, medical certificates, and overall fitness for duty.⁹

The Controversy and Reactions

The controversy stems from Senator Kalu’s statements during a Senate plenary session, where he accused some Nigerian pilots of using Indian hemp and claimed the NCAA failed to conduct on-the-spot assessments.¹⁰ He also made a technically incorrect statement, suggesting that modern aircraft with automatic landing gear don’t require pilot control.¹¹

In response to the senator’s remarks, an aviation journalist and publisher, Adeola Fadairo, also condemned Kalu’s allegations, calling them “reckless” and “ill-considered.”¹² He stressed that such unverified statements from a serving senator could erode passenger confidence, undermine the credibility of Nigerian carriers internationally, and jeopardize investments in the aviation sector.¹³ Fadairo urged the senator to provide credible evidence to the appropriate authorities instead of making unverified public claims.