society
TINUBU’S RENEWED HOPE AND CIVIL AVIATION TRANSFORMATIONAL FOOTPRINTS
*TINUBU’S RENEWED HOPE AND CIVIL AVIATION TRANSFORMATIONAL FOOTPRINTS*
By Michael Ado
To still state that President Tinubu’s reform programs are working in all sectors is overemphasizing realities.
To add that they are positively impacting the everyday life of the citizens and residents of the country is an understatement.
Truth is, however, that there is need for sectoral analysis for a point-by-point understanding of the impact of the Renewed Hope initiatives. Through that, citizens and even the international community can better appreciate what is happening in Nigeria, and the point-men who are making those things happen.
The Nigerian civil aviation corridor has suffered years of neglect, leading to a comatose state.
The long-standing infrastructural decay and systemic neglect, occasioned by endemic and widespread corruption and abuse, rendered the civil aviation compliant to numerous sectoral dysfunctions.
Some of the identified challenges, which otherwise negatively impacted the growth of the sector, limiting safety and its overall efficiency, prompting calls for reforms and increased investment, include aging airport infrastructure and inadequate facilities, safety issues like bird strikes, runway skids, and ageing aircraft fleets, coupled with high operational costs, foreign exchange scarcity, and blocked funds for foreign airlines.
There were also challenges of inconsistent regulatory policies and lack of effective oversight, with acute manpower shortage and grossly inadequate trained professionals, caused by several years of neglect and airlines failing to invest in training programs.
Militating against the sector also was the challenge of inconsistent and unreliable foreign exchange, which was equally scarce and inaccessible to foreign airlines, resulting in flight suspensions and increased fares.
While associated with the challenge was high cost of operation due to rising cost of jet fuel prices and other operational costs, contributing to increased air ticket prices. And because of limited space and various role conflicts, there were constant rivalries between government agencies, such as FAAN and NCAA, hindering effective collaboration and oversight with incessant noncompliance issues, especially from some private jet operators operating chartered services without proper licenses, and rendering consumers liable to several abuses, poor treatment, including flight delays, cancellations, and lack of transparency in pricing, without any form of established protection.
However, with the assumption of Captain Chris Najomo as the Acting Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), all these have changed.
A man determined, like William Blake, not to resolve all contradictions but to live with them and rise above them, Captain Chris came with the Midas touch of positive solutions.
Mindful of the challenges, Capt. Najomo set out first to address the lingering infrastructural deficit, thereby upgrading the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) through the installation of airfield lighting systems at Murtala Muhammed Airport’s Runway 18R, reducing flight delays by 25%, coupled with the completion and commissioning of long-abandoned projects, such as the NCAA Regional Office in Port Harcourt and the Kano Regional Office, enhancing the NCAA’s operational capabilities.
The introduction of airport concessions in 2025, which saw the private sector into full participation in the modernization of the airport infrastructure, became the icebreaker leading to the rapid boost and enhancing operational efficiency, attracting significant investment, improving consumer experience.
It is noteworthy that Capt. Chris also implemented various measures aimed at instilling probity, accountability, and transparency into the regulatory dynamics of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), including the establishment of a Consumer Protection Directorate to address issues like flight delays and cancellations, and the Consumer Protection Portal to address passenger complaints and improve service quality, showcasing his commitment to consumer welfare, and expanding access and availability through the development of new airports, such as the Ogun Gateway Airport, which has since commenced commercial operations, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s aviation industry.
Another novel masterpiece is the implementation of various initiatives to enhance safety in Nigerian aviation, such as the establishment of the Flight Data Analysis Centre (FDAC) to detect anomalies and prevent safety challenges, as well as the prompt implementation of aircraft entry policy to allow smaller airlines to operate with fewer aircraft, fostering competition and growth.
A forward-thinking administrator, Captain Najomo also recertified two notable international airports, namely the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA), thereby bringing to an end over 160 compliance issues, and demonstrating Nigeria’s capacity, leadership, and commitment to global safety standards.
These reforms, and the filling in of infrastructural gaps, have not just greatly added value to the sector but have become a springboard of attraction, building confidence, ensuring reliability, and bringing in many foreign direct investments, including public-private partnerships (PPPs), which are presently relentlessly driving inclusivity and growth in the aviation sector.
The various citizen-centred concessional arrangements include terminal concessions at major airports and Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) models and arrangements for cargo terminals and maintenance hangars.
While improving the overall efficiency, safety, and competitiveness of Nigeria’s aviation sector, the various reforms also aim at repositioning the sector for formidable growth and development, enabling it to contribute not less than 2.5% to Nigeria’s GDP by the end of this year and supporting the employment of over 200,000 youths, while also stabilizing the finances of the sector through the “no pay, no service” policy, compelling airlines to settle their debts to the NCAA, significantly improving the agency’s financial health, and establishing a culture of collaboration and understanding between management and workers, leading to increased productivity and efficiency in the aviation sector.
Through the superlative resounding performance of Captain Chris Najomo, through sound and articulate demonstration of leadership and dedication, he has made positive impact on the Nigerian aviation sector, prioritizing safety, consumer protection, and regulatory excellence, thereby justifying the trust of Mr. President, and proving once again Mr. President’s efficiency and capacity for placing a square peg in a square hole, and getting the right people for the job, not necessarily out of sentiments but based on merits, innovation, and results.
There is no doubt that the NCAA is getting it right. More than right in Captain Chris Najomo’s agency, demonstrating team spirit, cohesion, unity of purpose, appreciation, and assimilation of the leadership of their MD, while positively aligning with the Renewed Hope Mandate of the Civil Aviation Sector for the overall growth of the economy and national development sustainability.
*Ado writes from Lugbe, Abuja.
Tinubu Abroad, Nigeria in Chaos: The Spectacle of Elite Excess
By George Omagbemi Sylvester
“Government officials queue to bid him farewell as he departs, only to rush ahead and line up again to welcome him at his destination; a stark display of misaligned priorities in Nigerian leadership.”
Wednesday, March18, 2026
In a spectacle that has plunged Nigeria’s political class into fresh ignominy, a long line of federal ministers, governors, senators and political hangers‑on queued outside a London hotel this week to welcome President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR upon his arrival in the United Kingdom for a two‑day state visit.
Not only did these government officials send off Mr. Tinubu as he departed Nigeria (a ritual in itself excessive given the scale of pressing national crises) they rushed ahead to London to line the halls of his hotel, applauding and greeting him like conquering heroes arriving on foreign shores. This is how Nigeria’s elites now comport themselves while millions of citizens endure ever‑deepening hardship.
A Travesty of Priorities
Tinubu’s visit to the UK, hosted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla, is officially billed as an effort to deepen trade relations, attract investment and strengthen bilateral cooperation between Britain and Africa’s most populous nation. While those diplomatic objectives in theory could benefit Nigeria, the optics of an entire political class fawning over a president abroad are unbearably grim against the backdrop of domestic suffering.
According to recent economic analysis, despite macroeconomic adjustments such as ending fuel subsidies and floating the naira, more than 60% of Nigerians still live in poverty and daily hardships are rampant. Security remains a grave concern with violence and banditry destabilising large swathes of the country. Instead of addressing these crises with urgency, Nigeria’s leadership appears fascinated with photo‑ops overseas.
“A System of Self‑Centred Elites”
Critics within Nigeria have not minced words. Political observers describe the spectacle as a display of self‑centred politics divorced from the realities facing ordinary citizens. One observer on social platforms summed up the broader sentiment: “Tinubu represents a system of self‑centred elites (elite consensus over popular will) and this is exactly the performative politics that lines like these embody.”
Dr. Godfrey Mwakikagile, a respected African scholar on post‑colonial governance, has long warned that bad leadership and lack of accountability are Africa’s greatest challenges. “Power in many African states is too centralised and concentrated in the hands of elites who use it to perpetuate themselves at the expense of the public good,” Mwakikagile recently argued; a critique that resonates all the more when ministers fly abroad not to pursue tangible policy but to line up like admirers.
The Cost of Foreign Pageantry
This isn’t the first time Tinubu’s foreign engagements have attracted scrutiny. His administration’s frequent travels (often with large entourages) have drawn criticism for prioritising optics over outcomes, especially when Nigeria’s economy contracts and its people struggle with food inflation and insecurity.
Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has been among the most vocal domestic critics of these priorities, noting that Tinubu’s extensive foreign travel (including to the UK) distracts from urgent national needs and has become a “matter of grave concern.” Obi insists that such actions reveal a leadership more interested in global visibility than domestic wellbeing.
Nigeria Jagajaga!
The phrase “Nigeria jagajaga” (loosely translated as Nigeria being in disarray) has never felt more apt. A nation where ministers greet presidents in plush foreign suites while citizens queue for food and services is a country deeply out of balance.
Instead of being welcomed like dignitaries abroad, ministers and governors should be at home addressing the root causes of Nigeria’s struggles: insecurity that displaces communities and kills livelihoods, an economy that leaves the majority impoverished despite reforms, and the persistent failings of governance that erode public trust.
What Nigerians Deserve
President Tinubu and his entourage should be judged not by the number of ministers who lined up to greet him in London, but by the lives changed back in Nigeria.
As scholars like Mwakikagile and critics like Obi remind us, political leadership must be accountable and grounded in service, not spectacle. Nigeria’s leaders owe the people more than applause at international hotels; they owe them safety, economic opportunity, and genuine progress.
If this nation is ever to break free from the cycle of “jagajaga,” then those in power must demonstrate sincerity, not pageantry; action, not admiration. The lines outside a London hotel are not a testament to leadership; they are a testament to where Nigeria’s priorities have tragically come to rest.
GENERAL BULAMA BIU MOURNS VICTIMS OF BORNO ATTACKS, CALLS FOR UNITY AND VIGILANCE**
In a solemn and heartfelt message, Major General Abdulmalik Bulama Biu (Rtd), mni, the Sarkin Yakin Biu, has expressed profound grief over the recent tragic incidents of bomb explosions in Maiduguri and renewed violent attacks in several communities across Borno State.
This was contained in a statement he personally signed and made available to the press.
The retired senior military officer described the assaults which affected areas including Ngoshe, Mandiragirau, Ajiri, and Buratai as “cruel and most barbaric,” particularly as they occurred during a period of deep religious observance for many residents. General Biu extended his condolences to His Excellency, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, the Executive Governor of Borno State, the people of the state, and especially the immediate families of the victims.
“These unfortunate attacks have painfully led to the loss of innocent lives and destruction of properties, a painful reminder of the challenges we continue to face as a people,” he stated.
General Biu prayed that Almighty Allah grants the deceased eternal rest (Jannatul Firdaus) and grants the injured a speedy recovery. He also commended the bravery and swift response of security agencies and emergency responders, acknowledging their tireless efforts to protect lives and restore peace in the state.
Addressing the resilient people of Borno, including elders, community leaders, associations, and the vibrant youth, General Biu urged steadfastness, unity, and increased vigilance. “Let us once again rejig our commitment and ensure we overcome this development. We have done it in time past, we can still do it now together,” he emphasized.
He further called on citizens not to allow “these cowardly acts to break our spirit or weaken our collective resolve to achieve lasting peace and stability.”
In strong terms, General Biu declared his solidarity with Governor Zulum, the state government, stakeholders, and all well-meaning citizens in condemning the attacks. He concluded his message with a prayer: “May Allah (SWT) bring lasting peace to Borno State and the entire nation.”
Temitope Adewale: Heralding New Era of Infrastructure Development in Ifako-Ijaiye
Residents of Ifako-Ijaiye Local Government Area are witnessing a new phase of infrastructural transformation as key transportation projects begin to reshape mobility and economic activity within the constituency. At the heart of this development is the ongoing rehabilitation and resurfacing of Iju Road, alongside the introduction of the Quality Bus Corridor (QBC) along the Iju–Agege-Abule-Egba transport route.
The projects represent a strategic step toward improving road infrastructure, strengthening public transport systems, and enhancing connectivity across several communities within the local government area; this is a total shift from the norm previously known.
For decades, Iju Road has served as one of the most important road networks connecting Iju-Ishaga, Abule-Egba, Agege, Agbado and adjoining communities leading to neighbouring Ogun State. The road plays a crucial role in the daily movement of residents, goods, commercial operators, and commuters traveling to other parts of Lagos.
However, years of heavy usage and increasing population growth placed significant pressure on the road infrastructure, making rehabilitation necessary. The ongoing project focuses on total resurfacing of the entire stretch of the road, strengthening its structure, and improving drainage to ensure long-term durability.
Beyond restoring the road surface, the rehabilitation effort is expected to significantly improve traffic flow, reduce travel time, and enhance the overall commuting experience for thousands of residents who depend on the route daily.
In addition to the road project is the introduction of the Quality Bus Corridor initiative along the Iju–Abule-Egba axis. The project forms part of Lagos State’s broader effort to modernise urban transportation and improve the efficiency of public transit across the state.
The QBC model is designed to enhance bus operations along major transport routes by upgrading road infrastructure, improving traffic management systems, and providing better facilities for commuters.
Under the initiative, several improvements are expected along the corridor, including upgraded bus stops which are already underway, improved pedestrian walkways, traffic signal optimisation, and enhanced safety measures for road users.
These upgrades are aimed at making bus transportation faster, more reliable, and more comfortable for commuters while also reducing congestion along one of the busiest corridors in the area.
The Iju–Abule-Egba corridor serves as a major transportation link for communities across Ifako-Ijaiye and neighbouring areas. With the introduction of the QBC system and the rehabilitation of Iju Road, residents are expected to benefit from improved connectivity and more efficient access to key commercial and residential districts.
Improved road infrastructure also plays an important role in facilitating economic activities, as easier transportation enables smoother movement of goods and services across communities.
For traders, transport operators, and small business owners, better road conditions translate into reduced vehicle maintenance costs, shorter travel times, and improved productivity which is the desire of all citizens. This project will surely reduce costs of energy spent on travel time, improve lifespan through less traffic, reduce carbon emission and help achieve better health for all.
The ongoing infrastructural improvements in Ifako-Ijaiye have become a reality through the legislative advocacy and productive engagement with relevant government agencies by Hon. Adewale Temitope Adedeji, OON, member representing Ifako-Ijaiye Constituency I in the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Temitope Adewale, who is also the Chairman,House Committee on Transportation has been instrumental in facilitating groundbreaking infrastructural projects to Ifako-Ijaiye Constituency 01, all in bid to improve the social outlook and transform the economic landscape of the area.
Through continuous engagement with government authorities and stakeholders, the projects have gained the support required to address longstanding transportation challenges affecting different parts of the constituency, giving residents the joy for free movements at will.
His advocacy has contributed to ensuring that Ifako-Ijaiye remains part of the broader infrastructure development agenda aimed at transforming Lagos into a modern and well-connected megacity.
Infrastructure development remains a key driver of urban growth, and the ongoing projects within Ifako-Ijaiye reflect a broader commitment to building resilient and efficient transport systems across Lagos State.
By combining road rehabilitation with modern public transport initiatives such as the Quality Bus Corridor, the state government is laying the groundwork for a more sustainable and integrated transportation network.
For residents of Ifako-Ijaiye, the transformation of Iju Road and the introduction of the QBC initiative represent more than just road construction—they signal progress toward improved mobility, stronger local economies, and a better quality of life.
As work continues along the corridor, many residents remain optimistic that these infrastructural improvements will usher in a new era of development for the local government area.
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