The House of Representatives, on Tuesday, directed Federal Ministry of Aviation and relevant agencies to conduct a comprehensive audit of airport personnel.

According to the resolution passed by the House, the reports of the audit exercises which shall be submitted to the House Committee on Aviation, shall include: an assessment of required skills, qualifications, and adherence to professional standards.

In his lead debate on the urgent public importance on urgent need to enhance accountability and competency in Nigerian airports, sponsored by Hon. Okey-Joe Onuakalusi, underscored the dire need to maintain high standards of safety, security, and efficiency at our nation’s airports.

“The House also notes that, the efficient functioning of Nigerian airports is crucial for national security, safety, and economic development.

“The House further notes that recent incidents have raised concerns about the competence and accountability of personnel and contractors working at airports.

“The House is aware of the potential risks to safety, security, and efficiency posed by the appointment of incompetent officers to sensitive positions and the employment of political appointees who may lack the necessary knowledge and competence to manage critical airport functions.

“The House is worried about the abysmal state of our RADAR systems, which present a disaster waiting to happen as RADAR labels often fail at critical times, risking mid-air collisions.

In the same vein, the House mandated the Ministry of Aviation to conduct an Audit of Technical systems and projects to thoroughly review of the current state of RADAR systems, radio communications, the Safe Tower project, and the Aeronautical Information Service (AIS) Automation project.

Similarly, the House mandated the Minister of Aviation, along with the heads of relevant agencies and departments, to appear before the House Committee on Aviation within the next seven days to address these concerns.

Hence, the House mandated its Committee on Legislative compliance shall diligently oversee the implementation of these resolutions.