By Precious Mark
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has vehemently denied a report by an online publication alleging the improper procurement of a N250 million vehicle by its Acting Director-General, Chris Najomo.
Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection for the NCAA, condemned the report as “fabricated, baseless and untrue,” accusing the Daily Nigerian journalist of failing to conduct proper investigations.
Addressing the press at the NCAA headquarters on April 29th, 2024, Achimugu emphatically stated that Najomo has not purchased any vehicle since assuming office in December 2023.
He challenged the reporter to provide evidence, threatening resignation for both himself and the Acting DG if such proof could be presented.
“NCAA has not paid any amount of money for any vehicle in the world since Captain Najomo came into office and I challenge the writer to present evidence and I will tender my resignation immediately and not only that I will ask the DG to do same as well,” he emphasized.
Achimugu further clarified that Najomo currently lacks an operational vehicle and has not provided them for directors either.
He contrasted this with the previous Director-General who left with agency vehicles. Achimugu emphasized Najomo’s focus on staff welfare, exemplified by the payment of outstanding entitlements and promotions.
Regarding alleged N1 billion staff training approvals, Achimugu distinguished between approved and completed training.
He explained that foreign training, impacted by the federal government’s travel restrictions, will commence upon the embargo’s expiration.
Achimugu addressed blocked government funds, stating the issue affected multiple agencies and did not impede the NCAA’s contributions to the Treasury Single Account (TSA).
He encouraged journalists to practice responsible reporting and seek clarification from the NCAA before publishing to avoid “baseless and malicious reports.”
The press conference concluded with Achimugu detailing Najomo’s achievements in his brief tenure, including staff initiatives, licensing reforms, and consumer protection improvements.
