The Federal Government has taken decisive action to address the proliferation of unauthorized and illegal charter flights within Nigeria’s aviation sector with the inauguration of a Ministerial Task Force. Led by Minister Festus Keyamo, the task force aims to combat illicit activities that pose financial losses and security risks to the country.
Keyamo, in a statement on his official platform, emphasized the critical need to curb illegal charter operations, citing reports that highlighted widespread misconduct and regulatory breaches in the aviation industry. The task force, comprising industry experts and regulatory officials, has been mandated to inventory private non-commercial flight operators, investigate illegal charters, verify pilot licenses, and recommend stringent regulatory measures.
The Minister also disclosed alarming findings, including instances of private jets being used for money laundering and drug trafficking, facilitated by holders of Air Operator Certificates. He underscored concerns over safety lapses, such as outdated simulator training and fraudulent licensing, among crew members involved in these illicit activities.