The city of Enugu, Nigeria on Wednesday became the epicenter of aviation innovation as the International Centre for Protocol and Diplomacy (ICPD) and the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), supported by Nigerian consultancy Nick Peace Ltd, hosted an Advanced Training and Capacity Building Programme.
In his opening address while declaring the event open, the Director-General of the NCAA, Captain Chris Najomo, who was represented by Engr Godwin Balang, Director Aerodrome and Airspace Standards enjoined participants to work towards an enviable aviation sector in Africa.
Themed “Navigating Global Events, Corporate Ethics, and Ensuring Compliance and Resilience in Air Travel”, the event, held to celebrate NCAA’s 25th anniversary, marked a transformative moment for Africa’s aviation sector.
The two-day programme brought together regulators, industry professionals, and global experts to tackle pressing challenges in compliance, resilience, and corporate diplomacy.
Dr. Aghadinazu Rebecca, Director of Corporate Services at NCAA, delivered a compelling welcome address titled.“Aviation is constantly shaped by global events, evolving technologies, and complex regulatory demands.
“Through this training, we aim to deepen understanding of corporate governance, enhance compliance culture, and position Nigeria as a resilient aviation hub in Africa and beyond.”, she noted.
Hon. Patricia Kenneth-Divine, Director General of ICPD, echoed this vision: “This is a pivotal moment for aviation in Africa. Our goal is to build bridges between nations, industries, and ideas.”
The ICPD-NCAA partnership, supported by Nick Peace Ltd’s exceptional coordination, set the stage for a transformative dialogue on the future of air travel.
The keynote address by Her Excellency Amb. Saroja Sirisena, Advisory Board member of ICPD and former Sri Lankan High Commissioner to the UK, highlighted the critical role of corporate diplomacy in fostering stakeholder trust and navigating global challenges.
The programme also celebrated the transformative leadership of the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), whose bold reforms have revitalized Nigeria’s aviation sector, strengthening safety, compliance, and global competitiveness.
The programme covered cutting-edge topics, from global thought leaders, like. Jean-Luc Meier, Founder of SRC Strategic Relations Counselling, shared best practices in corporate diplomacy, while Helen Ejiro, Head of International Relations at the African School of Value and Leadership, highlighted AI’s role in predictive analytics and real-time monitoring.
Dr. Chidi Maduka and Mrs. Francis Ben Agande provided insights into managing global events and crises, equipping participants with tools to navigate a complex industry.
Mr Emeka Mba, CEO AFIA TV, Fmr. DG National Broadcasting Service who spoke on Corporate Diplomacy, Effective Communication and Stakeholder Engagement, while Julius Lambert Nyananyo, Founder and Lead Consultant, St. Lambert Consult Ltd, Protocol Consultant, Public Relations spoke on Protocol and Compliance in Air Travel.