NCAA Announces 2026 Crackdown on Non-Compliant Airstrip Operators

 The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has announced a major regulatory shift, declaring that effective January 1, 2026, all airstrip operators across the country must obtain the necessary operating permits or face stringent sanctions. The announcement, made earlier today, marks a significant move aimed at tightening safety and compliance measures within Nigeria’s aviation sector.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, the Director-General of the NCAA, Captain Chris Najomo, emphasized that the new enforcement policy is part of broader efforts to align Nigeria’s aviation operations with international safety standards and best practices.

According to Captain Najomo, the NCAA had observed a growing number of privately and publicly owned airstrips operating without proper regulatory approvals — a situation he described as “unacceptable and dangerous.” He noted that while some operators had previously been given grace periods to regularize their operations, persistent non-compliance has necessitated a firmer approach.

"Effective January 1, 2026, any airstrip operator who has not secured the required permit to operate will be sanctioned in accordance with the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations (NCARs)," Najomo stated. "These sanctions may include hefty fines, closure of facilities, and possible legal action where necessary."

The Director-General further revealed that the NCAA would soon commence a nationwide audit of all existing airstrips to verify their operational status and compliance levels. He urged all operators to begin the permit application and renewal processes immediately to avoid disruption of their activities.

Industry stakeholders have welcomed the NCAA’s decision, with many seeing it as a necessary step towards ensuring aviation safety and boosting investor confidence in Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure. However, some smaller airstrip operators have expressed concerns about the potential costs and bureaucratic hurdles involved in securing permits, calling for the NCAA to simplify the process and offer technical support where needed.

The announcement comes against the backdrop of ongoing reforms within Nigeria’s aviation industry, which include updating regulatory frameworks, improving airport infrastructure, and enhancing oversight functions. These reforms are part of Nigeria’s broader efforts to attain Category 1 status in aviation safety from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and other international bodies.

The NCAA reaffirmed its commitment to working collaboratively with operators to ensure a smooth transition ahead of the enforcement date. "We are not out to stifle operations," Najomo clarified. "Our objective is to ensure that every airstrip operates safely, legally, and in line with global standards."

As the countdown to January 2026 begins, airstrip operators across Nigeria are now under pressure to comply or risk being grounded.