NCAA Investigation: ValueJet Acknowledges Severity of SOP Incident, Vows Cooperation

As the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) launches investigation into breach of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) by the airline’s pilot, ValueJet has pledged to cooperate fully with the authorities over the incident.

The airline said safety remains its top priority, promising full accountability and adherence to regulatory standards.

Persecondnews recalls that the NCAA had in a statement through its Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, on Tuesday, August 5, announced the suspension of ValueJet crew members’ licences over a breach of safety protocols.

The affected ValueJet crew members are Captain Oluranti Ogoyi and First Officer Ivan Oloba.

The NCAA said both licences have been suspended with immediate effect pending the conclusion of a full investigation.

The statement reads: “The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) confirms that it has received reports concerning a serious breach of aviation safety protocols by a ValueJet pilot at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja (Domestic Terminal), on Tuesday, August 5, 2025.

“Preliminary information indicates that the pilot in question commenced departure procedures from the designated bay without adhering to the mandatory pre-departure clearance protocols.

“The NCAA views this incident with utmost seriousness.”

Reacting to the development in an official statement released Wednesday, August 6, the airline acknowledged the incident and assured the public that it is fully cooperating with the NCAA as investigations are ongoing.

It said:”We acknowledge the seriousness of this incident and are fully cooperating with the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) in their ongoing investigation.

“The crew involved were removed immediately from active duty, pending the outcome of a thorough internal review and investigation.

“At ValueJet, safety is not negotiable. We operate under strict adherence to regulatory procedures and international safety standards. We remain committed to accountability and improvement across all levels of our operations.”

It commended the NCAA for its prompt response and reiterated its commitment to supporting efforts aimed at preserving the integrity of Nigeria’s aviation sector.