Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has terminated the appointments of 33 directors within his ministry, sparking reactions within the aviation industry. Aviation experts have characterized this move as a “clean sweep and reversal” of the last-minute appointments made by the previous administration led by Senator Hadi Sirika.
Six months ago, Sirika appointed these directors, a decision that has now been reversed in a major shake-up that caught many by surprise. The removal of chief executives of aviation agencies also preceded this development.
Notably, key executives were reportedly unaware of their impending sack, discovering the news through newspapers or social media while abroad for international aviation events.
President Tinubu approved the suspension, removal, and replacement of chief executive officers of agencies under the aviation ministry, including FAAN, NCAA, NAMA, NSIB, NIMET, and NCAT. The replacements include Mrs. Olubunmi Oluwaseun Kuku for Kabir Yusuf Mohammed of FAAN, Engr. Umar Ahmed Farouk for Tayib Adetunji Odunowo of NAMA, Mr. Alex Badeh Jr. for Engr. Akinola Olateru of NSIB, Prof. Charles Anosike for Prof. Mansur Bako Matazu of NIMET, and Mr. Joseph Shaka Imalighwe as Acting Rector for Capt. Alkali Mahmud Modibbo of NCAT. Capt. Musa Shuaibu Nuhu of NCAA was suspended, with Capt. Chris Najomo serving as Acting DG.
The unexpected shake-up has sparked mixed reactions in the industry, with some praising it as a bold step toward reorganization and reversal of last-minute appointments, while others remain divided on the government’s approach. Former general manager Alhaji Abubakar Bibi commended Keyamo’s decisive action, emphasizing the need for stakeholder support.
On the other hand, General Secretary of Aviation Roundtable, Mr. Olumide Ohunayo, acknowledged the government’s right to hire and fire, expressing approval for the spread in appointments. Union leader Comrade Olayinka Abioye and Deputy General Secretary of ATSSAN, Comrade Frances Akinjole, noted that the sack was anticipated, urging the minister to make diligent and fair replacements.
In a subsequent statement from the aviation ministry, all directors were directed to hand over to the most senior officers in their departments or directorates, further emphasizing the change in leadership to reposition the aviation industry in alignment with the administration’s agenda.
