By Kayode Olabanji
The National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE) has condemned the recent statement by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu alleging that some Nigerian pilots operate aircraft under the influence of drugs, describing the claim as baseless, damaging and a gross misrepresentation of the aviation industry.
In a statement signed by its Public Relations Officer, Blessing Ahmadu and made available to newsmen, the association expressed deep concern over what it called a “malicious attack” on the integrity and professionalism of Nigerian pilots.
NAAPE stated that the allegation made by Senator Kalu during a plenary session of the National Assembly was not only unfounded, but also capable of undermining public confidence in the nation’s aviation sector.
“NAAPE categorically and emphatically refutes the broad allegation that Nigerian pilots routinely fly under the influence of narcotics,” the statement read.
“Such baseless claims are false and represent a dangerous distortion of the rigorous safety standards that govern Nigerian aviation operations.”
The association emphasised that all licensed pilots in Nigeria operate under strict regulatory, medical and ethical standards as prescribed by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) requirements.
It added that these standards prohibit the use of any psychoactive substances and require regular and random drug and alcohol testing as part of medical certification and recurrent assessments.
NAAPE further reaffirmed its confidence in the NCAA’s safety oversight functions and consistent enforcement of global best practices that uphold the integrity of the aviation system.
“It is inaccurate and misleading to suggest that pilots routinely engage in drug use or report to duty under the influence,” the association said.
“Aviation operations in Nigeria involve multiple layers of oversight, including pre-flight medical checks, simulator training, random toxicology screening and continuous monitoring by both operators and regulators.”
The association noted that Nigeria’s air transport sector remains one of the safest in Africa due to strict adherence to international standards and ongoing professional development. It stressed that any isolated misconduct is swiftly addressed through disciplinary and regulatory measures.
Speaking on behalf of the association, NAAPE President, Captain Bunmi Gindeh, said the burden of proof lies on anyone making such serious allegations.
“It is unacceptable to make unsubstantiated claims against a community of professionals. Our members undergo some of the most rigorous medical, psychological, and professional screening anywhere in the world. To broadly suggest that Nigerian pilots operate aircraft under the influence of drugs is deeply unfair to the thousands of disciplined professionals who dedicate their lives to ensuring safe skies,” Gindeh stated.
NAAPE, therefore, called on Senator Kalu to either substantiate his claims with verifiable evidence before the appropriate authorities, including the NCAA and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), or issue a public retraction and apology.
The association also urged the NCAA to issue a public clarification on existing drug and alcohol testing procedures for pilots to further reassure the flying public and correct any misconceptions arising from the Senator’s remarks.
NAAPE appealed to the National Assembly’s Committee on Aviation to engage with industry stakeholders to better understand the safety framework that governs pilot training, certification and operations in Nigeria.
“We remain committed to upholding the highest professional standards among our members and will continue to collaborate with regulatory agencies, operators and international partners to advance safety, discipline and excellence across all aspects of Nigerian aviation,” the association affirmed.
The association assured the travelling public that Nigerian pilots remain among the most competent, disciplined and safety-conscious professionals in the world.