The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance humanitarian air services and strengthen emergency response operations across Nigeria.
The agreement, signed in Abuja on March 25, 2026, establishes a strategic framework to improve access to life-saving aid, particularly in hard-to-reach and crisis-affected areas.
Director-General Civil Aviation (DGCA), Capt. Chris Najomo described the partnership as a shared commitment to humanitarian service through stronger collaboration. He highlighted aviation’s vital role in crisis response, noting that the Authority will deepen operational coordination, streamline regulatory support for humanitarian flights, and promote capacity-building efforts.
He added that the initiative reinforces Nigeria’s growing role as a regional hub for humanitarian air operations in West Africa.
WFP Deputy Country Director, Mr. Edouard Thiam, said the agreement marks a significant step toward more effective collaboration. He noted that it will improve the ability of both organisations to deliver timely assistance, reach vulnerable populations, and support recovery efforts with greater efficiency.
In her remarks, the director of the corresponding directorate, Special Duties, Augustina Erah pointed to longstanding challenges, including fragmented access, delayed clearances, and inconsistent charges, that have hindered humanitarian missions.
She said the MoU is expected to streamline processes and enhance the effectiveness of emergency response operations.
Senior officials from both organisations were present at the signing, including Barrister (Mrs.) Mary Tufano-Eche, NCAA Director of Legal Services and Company Secretary, Engr. Godwin Balang, Director of Airworthiness Standards, and WFP officials George Oguta, Dongwook Choi, Matthew Omata, and Ms. Chi Lael.
One Comment