NAAPE challenges Kalu to substantiate drug use by pilots

The National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE) has called on Senator Orji Kalu to provide evidence for his recent claim that some Nigerian pilots and flight crew use Indian hemp and operate aircraft under the influence of drugs.

In a statement on Friday, NAAPE’s Public Relations Officer, Engr. Blessing Ahmadu, described the allegations made during a National Assembly plenary session as “baseless, false, and misleading.”

The association urged the Senator to either present verifiable proof to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) or issue a public apology.

NAAPE emphasized that Nigerian pilots are held to strict regulatory, medical, and ethical standards in line with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) requirements.

These include regular and random drug and alcohol testing, pre-flight medical checks, recurrent training, and continuous monitoring.

“These claims are a malicious attack on the professionalism and integrity of Nigerian aviation professionals,” the statement read.

“Nigeria’s air transport sector remains one of the safest in Africa, thanks to rigorous safety standards and continuous professional development.”

NAAPE President Capt. Bunmi Gindeh added: “The burden of proof lies with whoever makes such allegations.

‘Our members undergo some of the most stringent medical, psychological, and professional screenings worldwide. Suggesting that Nigerian pilots operate under the influence of drugs is deeply unfair to thousands of disciplined professionals.”

The association also urged the NCAA to issue a public clarification on existing drug and alcohol testing procedures to reassure the flying public and invited Senator Kalu and the National Assembly Committee on Aviation to engage with NAAPE and other stakeholders on Nigeria’s aviation safety framework.

NAAPE reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the highest professional standards and ensuring the safety, discipline, and excellence of Nigerian pilots.