Orji Uzor Kalu, the Senator for Abia North, has raised serious concerns about the conduct of some pilots within Nigeria’s aviation sector, alleging that they engage in smoking Indian hemp and suffer from inadequate oversight by regulatory bodies.
During a Senate plenary session on Wednesday, Kalu voiced these allegations while contributing to a motion addressing aviation safety issues, prompted by the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau’s (NSIB) findings on the recent Air Peace runway mishap at Port Harcourt International Airport.
The motion, introduced by Senator Abdulfatai Buhari of Oyo North and chairman of the Senate Committee on Aviation, highlighted the June 22, 2025 incident involving an Air Peace Boeing 737-500 (Flight P47190) that veered off the runway upon landing in Port Harcourt.
Although the event resulted in no casualties, Buhari emphasized that it exposed significant weaknesses in safety protocols, infrastructure upkeep, and operational adherence within Nigeria’s aviation framework.
He pointed out that the NSIB report revealed shortcomings in runway maintenance, airfield illumination, pilot judgment, and regulatory supervision, cautioning that such failures could undermine public trust in air travel.
“Aviation is a cornerstone of our national security and economic development; it cannot be left to chance,” Buhari asserted, urging immediate remedial action.
In his remarks, Senator Kalu criticized certain pilots as negligent and unqualified, accusing some of substance abuse.
“The regulatory bodies responsible for these pilots are failing in their duties. Some pilots are unprepared and engage in smoking Indian hemp,” Kalu stated.
“Proper audits are not being conducted. Many pilots exhibit recklessness. All relevant agencies must take responsibility for monitoring pilots and cabin crew. The NCAA must recommit to its oversight role. Additionally, several runways remain in poor condition.”
Senator Danjuma Goje from Gombe Central supported the motion, emphasizing the need for enhanced legislative scrutiny.
“It is crucial that the committee intensifies its oversight functions. Beyond appealing to the Senate, the committee must be proactive,” Goje remarked.
“Aviation safety is non-negotiable; even minor errors can result in fatalities.”
Goje also recommended that the Ministry of Aviation expedite the construction of a new runway at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, who presided over the session, instructed the Senate Committee on Aviation to conduct a comprehensive inquiry into the sector, underscoring aviation’s vital role in the country’s economy.
Following the discussions, the Senate resolved to urge the Federal Ministry of Aviation and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to promptly act on the NSIB’s recommendations; direct the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to enhance compliance checks, perform regular audits, and enforce global safety standards; and require FAAN to upgrade runways, install advanced navigational systems, and improve airfield lighting, starting with Port Harcourt International Airport.
Furthermore, the Senate tasked the aviation committee with engaging key stakeholders-including NSIB, NCAA, FAAN, NAMA, and airline operators-to ensure full implementation of safety measures and to report progress within six weeks.
In a separate resolution, the committee was mandated to investigate aviation agencies and submit findings within four weeks, while also urging the ministry to accelerate the development of a second runway at Abuja airport.
Lawmakers also praised the NSIB for its swift release of the investigative report, recognizing it as a positive move toward enhancing transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s aviation industry.
