NCAA warns cutting its Ticket Sales Charge share could weaken aviation safety oversight
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) warns that reducing its statutory share of the 5% Ticket Sales Charge (TSC) would weaken its ability to regulate aviation safety, potentially compromising passenger safety. NCAA Director Michael Achimugu stated adequate funding is essential for inspector training to maintain safety standards, noting the agency already shares TSC revenue with NAMA, NiMet, NCAT and NSIB under the current arrangement.
He explained the TSC was created to reduce government funding burden on the NCAA, with the regulator expected to be government-funded but relieved by this charge. Achimugu credited the NCAA's oversight for Nigeria's strong performance in international aviation safety audits and improved passenger rights protection. Minister of Aviation Festus Keyamo is mediating the dispute, with Achimugu urging stakeholders to allow the process to continue without media escalation.
The NCAA also denied owing NAMA outstanding payments, explaining remittances are processed by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and confirming payments are being made. The warning comes as the National Assembly considers a bill to shift more TSC revenue to NAMA at the NCAA's expense.
Will weaker NCAA oversight due to reduced funding make you reconsider air travel safety, or do you trust ongoing ministerial mediation to resolve this without compromising safety?