Orji Kalu Alleges Nigerian Pilots Smoke Cannabis, NCAA Denies Claim
Senator Orji Kalu has sparked controversy with claims that some Nigerian pilots smoke cannabis before flying, accusing aviation authorities of failing to enforce proper oversight.
Speaking on the Senate floor on Wednesday, the Abia North lawmaker said, “On many occasions, I’ve stopped to fly because of the inadequacy of the pilots’ preparation.
“Some of the pilots are not prepared. Some of them use Indian hemp. Yes, it’s true. Some of them smoke Indian hemp. Some of them are not properly audited by the authorities. I’m telling you what I know.
“Because the NCAA and NEMA and other authorities are not looking after these pilots and checking them on drugs—on-the-spot assessment—they are not doing it. It is dangerous.”
In response, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) rejected the allegations. In a statement by its director-general, Chris Najomo, the agency said pilots undergo rigorous medical and professional assessments “consistent with global standards” before being certified to fly.
“Contrary to the impression created, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority maintains a rigorous and internationally recognised system for certifying and monitoring the medical and professional fitness of all pilots operating in Nigeria,” the statement said.
“It is inaccurate to suggest that pilots operate under the influence of substances or without adequate checks. No pilot is permitted to operate a Nigerian-registered aircraft without holding both a valid pilot licence and a current medical certificate, as required by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig. CARs) Part 8.4.1.4.”
The NCAA explained that medical certificates are issued only after comprehensive evaluations by authorised aviation medical examiners, covering cardiovascular, neurological, psychological, metabolic, respiratory, and visual assessments.
The process also screens for the use of psychoactive substances, mental or behavioural disorders, and other conditions that could impair a pilot’s ability to operate an aircraft safely.
The authority noted that medical certificates are valid for 12 months for pilots under 40 years old and six months for those aged 40 and above, with renewal contingent on passing a new series of medical tests.
While the NCAA acknowledged the senator’s concerns, it insisted they “do not reflect the factual state of regulatory practice in the Nigerian aviation sector.”
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
