The Deputy spokesperson for the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese has condemned the recent remark by the senator representing Abia North Senatorial District, Orji Uzor-Kalu suggesting that Nigerian pilots operate under the influence of illegal drugs like Indian hemp and its likes.
Speaking with newsmen in Abuja on Thursday, Agbese urged the former governor of Abia State to retract his comments and focus on supporting policies that could boost the nation’s aviation industry.
Recall that Uzor-Kalu, during Wednesday’s plenary, while contributing to a motion on aviation safety in response to a Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) report on the Air Peace runway incident in Port Harcourt, said that Nigerian pilots are often under the influence of illegal substances.
However, reacting to the senator’s claim, Agbese said Uzor-Kalu’s remark is unacceptable, as it could cast an undeserved shadow over Nigerian pilots, whom he described as hardworking and having earned global recognition for their competence, discipline, and commitment to safety.
“Our pilots are some of the most competent and disciplined professionals you can find anywhere in the world. They undergo rigorous training, regular health and safety checks, and certification processes that meet global aviation standards. Nigeria’s airspace remains one of the safest in Africa,” Agbese said.
Agbese, while cautioning leaders against condemning youths, said that several young Nigerians put in their best and have remained committed to contributing to nation-building and patriotism.
“Instead of discouraging our young citizens who are giving their best to this country, we should celebrate their excellence. Some of the best pilots in the world are Nigerians — not only flying for our domestic airlines but also for leading carriers across Europe, the Middle East, and North America,” he said.
Commending the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development under the supervision of Festus Keyamo for maintaining high safety standards and ensuring that all aviation agencies perform their statutory duties effectively, Agbese said Uzor-Kalu’s remark was unfortunate and capable of demoralising a sector that demands public confidence and international trust.
The lawmaker also reaffirmed the commitment of the Lower Chamber to supporting aviation policies and infrastructural development within the sector.
“Our collective goal is to build a sector that continues to attract global respect. Nigeria’s pilots, engineers, and aviation workers are doing the country proud every day, and we must keep encouraging them to do even more,” Agbese added.
The article was originally published on Politics Nigeria.
