The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has suspended two ValueJet pilots for a serious breach of aviation safety protocols at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on Tuesday, August 5, 2025.
In a statement signed by Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, the NCAA revealed that Captain Oluranti Ogoyi and First Officer Ivan Oloba were suspended after preliminary findings showed they commenced departure procedures from a designated bay without obtaining mandatory pre-departure clearance.
“This reckless action endangered the safety of ground personnel and other airport users, contravening established civil aviation regulations and international safety standards,” the NCAA said.
Describing the incident as a grave violation, the regulatory body stressed that aviation safety is non-negotiable, and the pilots’ actions represented a direct threat to operational integrity at one of the country’s busiest airports.
“The NCAA views this incident with utmost seriousness. Consequently, the Authority has taken immediate enforcement action by suspending the licences of the pilot, Captain Oluranti Ogoyi, and the co-pilot, First Officer Ivan Oloba, with immediate effect,” the statement read.
The suspension will remain in effect pending the outcome of a full investigation into the safety breach. The NCAA also hinted that further disciplinary actions could follow based on the findings of the ongoing probe.
The incident has sparked concern in aviation circles, highlighting the critical need for strict adherence to safety and operational procedures, especially at major domestic terminals.
Meanwhile, ValueJet has yet to issue an official statement regarding the suspension or the events leading to it.
