NAAPE warns Orji Kalu over false pilot drug claims, demanding evidence or a public apology to protect the integrity of Nigerian aviation professionals

NAAPE warns Orji Kalu following his recent comments alleging that Nigerian pilots fly aircraft under the influence of Indian hemp a statement the association has described as reckless, false, and damaging to the aviation industry’s reputation.

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The National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE) has issued a stern warning to Senator Orji Kalu, demanding that he either present verifiable evidence to support his claim or issue an immediate public retraction and apology.

During a plenary session at the National Assembly on Wednesday, Kalu alleged that some Nigerian pilots smoke Indian hemp and operate aircraft while under the influence of drugs.

His remarks sparked outrage across the aviation sector, drawing swift condemnation from industry stakeholders who described the claims as baseless and deeply irresponsible.

In a statement released on Thursday, NAAPE’s Public Relations Officer, Blessing Ahmadu, labelled the lawmaker’s comments as a “malicious attack” on the professionalism and integrity of Nigerian aviation experts.

“NAAPE categorically and emphatically refutes the broad allegation that Nigerian pilots routinely fly under the influence of narcotics,” Ahmadu said.

“These baseless claims, which constitute a malicious attack on the professionalism, integrity, and reputation of Nigerian aviation professionals, are false and dangerously misleading.”

The association reaffirmed that Nigerian pilots are subject to rigorous safety protocols under the supervision of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), including regular and random drug and alcohol testing in line with international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

“It is inaccurate and misleading to suggest that pilots engage in drug use or report for duty under the influence of such substances,” Ahmadu added, noting that multiple layers of oversight — including pre-flight medical checks, simulator training, and toxicology screenings — ensure passenger safety.

NAAPE further emphasised that Nigeria maintains one of the safest air transport records in Africa, crediting this to strict regulatory compliance and immediate disciplinary measures in rare cases of misconduct.

While acknowledging Senator Kalu’s right to contribute to aviation discourse, the association urged public figures to speak responsibly to avoid spreading alarm or undermining public trust.

“While NAAPE recognises the distinguished Senator’s right to discuss aviation safety, it urges all public figures to avoid sweeping statements that could demoralise professionals or erode public confidence in air travel,” the statement read.

Echoing the association’s stance, NAAPE President Capt. Bunmi Gindeh described Kalu’s comments as “unacceptable” and “deeply unfair” to thousands of aviation workers who uphold the highest standards of professionalism.

“The burden of proof lies with whoever makes such an allegation,” Gindeh stressed. “Our members undergo some of the most rigorous medical, psychological, and professional screenings anywhere in the world.

To broadly generalise that pilots fly under the influence of drugs is not only false but an insult to our discipline and dedication.”

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NAAPE has formally called on Kalu to submit his purported evidence to the NCAA and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau or publicly apologise for his statement.