DG NCAA: SELF SERVING UNIONS

The unions are at it again - negotiating, arm twisting and queuing behind their preferred candidate for the position of DG NCAA. One of them was bold enough to remove the mask, the others hid behind a new body in a recurring shadow boxing between these unions. The executives of these unions always want the DG in their pockets, so spouses can get accelerated promotions, juicy courses and other illicit benefits. The joint aviation union body (AUGA) comprising of all unions and associations in the industry was formed some years ago to spearhead collective issues in the industry. Their last action was a couple of months ago when they requested for an aviator to replace Ms Oduah in the ministry. It is an empty and unnecessary threat for a single union to give a 21-day ultimatum to ground the industry without getting NEC approval, or carrying other principal associations and unions along. The inter union rivalry played out after the DANA crash, which resulted in the unceremonious exit of the respected and acclaimed Dr. Demuren. It repeated itself during the last cabinet reshuffle, providentially all their preferred candidates lost. The DG NCAA is the most sensitive position in the industry and we must be cautious in our selection process to avert a repetition of the calamitous entry and exit of the last DG, in an industry already divided into four groups with differences on replacement process and persons. The first group is angling for the nominee, Capt. Muktar, whose name has not been submitted to the Senate for confirmation. It is not smooth sailing for him. There are alleged petitions from his colleagues concerning his eligibility based on his work ethics and other cockpit issues. I feel for him though, considering he has already handed over his job at Accident Investigation Bureau. He should not be left in the cold, a soft landing will be more appropriate if he does not get the confirmation. He can be a good replacement for any of the two aviation Special Assistants in the Presidency. One of them has over stayed and is completely detached from the industry, while the other used the position as pensionable gift. The second group is agitating for the Acting DG, Engr. Adeyileka to remain and continue in the acting capacity till thy kingdom come. Are we too short sighted to see the dangers of keeping him for too long in that capacity? It breeds instability and encourages corruption and servitude. We are all witnesses to the last Acting DG's purchase of bullet proof and other vehicles as if they were going extinct. The acting capacity is too long and unhelpful to the industry. The third group, using a serving governor as arrowhead wants Capt. Fola Akinkuotu, who was unjustifiably removed to be reinstated to complete his tenure. The baggage here is that during the few months he spent in office, he did not show the spirit of an ''OMO AKIN'' neither did we see the ''Egin'', a symbol of strength usually exhibited by his people. Incidentally, he is from my maternal home. He kept himself away from core industry players, and stayed in the cocoon of Abuja players in a bid to protect his job. Sadly, the job lost him. Under his watch NCAA lost leadership to NAMA, while a legal consultant held him hostage, holding extended meetings, without attending to critical files. Directors and other critical staff watched bemused. The story of that consultant and intrigues is for another day. The fourth group, which I proudly align with, wants the position advertised for our best brains to come forward. It should be open to all Nigerians within and outside the country. The head hunting should be given to a reputable organisation and the report submitted for auditing. In strengthening that organisation, we must go further by advertising all top positions, while efforts must be made to bring officers that have soiled their hands yet walk with irritating swagger in the organisation to book. All groups must at least be united in the defense of the NCAA Act, autonomy and sanctity of their regulations and processes. The position of DG has tenure and therefore needs clearance from Senate and removal should follow due process as espoused in the NCAA Act. The incoming DG needs to be bold, independent, and conversant with all regulations and most importantly, defend our carriers and ensure growth by having a delicate balance in safety and economic regulations. We do not need a DG that regularly goes to Abuja to see the Minister and implements all directives from the Ministry to the detriment of the industry. International sanctions may apply, if we continue to shackle the regulator. The next DG should be given enough space to perform and the process of appointing a new one must start immediately.