The Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Enugu State Chapter, Comrade Barth Ebuka Okoh, has commended the flight and cabin crew of Enugu Air for their professionalism and swift response during the recent runway excursion involving one of the airline’s aircraft at Benin Airport, saying their actions ensured the safe evacuation of everyone on board.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Okoh said the crew’s calmness, discipline and strict adherence to aviation safety procedures prevented the incident from escalating, stressing that the successful evacuation of all passengers and crew without injuries should inspire confidence rather than fear.
“The most important fact remains that all passengers and crew members were safely evacuated without any loss of life,” he said.
The NYCN chairman described the crew’s handling of the emergency as a demonstration of the value of continuous training and professionalism in the aviation industry.
“The professionalism, composure, and adherence to established safety procedures by the Enugu Air flight and cabin crew played a significant role in ensuring an orderly evacuation and preventing the situation from escalating. Their calm response under pressure reflects the importance of continuous training and strict compliance with aviation safety standards,” Okoh stated.
While acknowledging that the runway excursion had generated public concern, he urged Nigerians not to judge the airline based on a single incident, noting that similar occurrences happen even in countries with highly developed aviation systems.
“Aviation is one of the safest and most regulated industries in the world. While runway excursions can occur even in well-developed aviation systems, what truly matters is how such situations are managed and the lessons learned afterward. The prompt response of the crew demonstrates the airline’s commitment to passenger safety,” he added.
Okoh also applauded the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) for promptly launching an investigation into the incident, urging the public to allow the agency to carry out a professional and transparent inquiry.
“I commend the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) for immediately commencing an investigation into the incident. Nigerians should allow the agency to carry out a thorough, professional, and transparent investigation to determine the cause and recommend measures that will further strengthen aviation safety,” he said.
The youth leader further called for sustained investment in Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure, including the upgrading of airport runways, improved navigation and landing facilities, enhanced runway maintenance, better drainage systems and regular safety inspections across airports.
He maintained that the incident should not discourage passengers from flying with Enugu Air, insisting that the airline’s effective handling of the emergency reflected its commitment to passenger safety.
“I therefore call on members of the public not to be discouraged from flying with Enugu Air. One incident under investigation should not define an airline, especially where safety procedures were effectively implemented and lives were protected. Passengers should continue to patronize Enugu Air with confidence while supporting efforts by aviation authorities to make our air transport system even safer,” Okoh stated.
He also urged Nigerians to refrain from speculation and await the outcome of the official investigation.
“Let us avoid speculation, rely on verified facts, and continue to support initiatives that promote aviation safety, infrastructure development, and public confidence in Nigeria’s aviation industry,” he added.
