‘Our pilots are diligent’ — Philip Agbese asks Orji Kalu to retract Indian hemp remark

Philip Agbese, deputy spokesperson of the house of representatives, has asked Orji Uzor Kalu, senator representing Abia north, to withdraw remarks that some pilots in Nigeria use Indian hemp.

Kalu, a former governor of Abia state, made the claim during Wednesday’s plenary while contributing to a motion on aviation safety.

The motion followed a report by the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) on the Air Peace runway incident in Port Harcourt.

On July 13, a Lagos-Port Harcourt Air Peace flight P47190 skidded off the runway upon landing.

Speaking with journalists in Abuja on Thursday evening, Agbese said while it was important to take aviation safety seriously, public officials must avoid comments that could undermine confidence in the country’s aviation professionals.

He said such statements are capable of casting an unfair shadow over hardworking Nigerian pilots who have earned global respect for their competence and discipline.

“Our pilots are some of the most competent and disciplined professionals you can find anywhere in the world,” Agbese said.

“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.”

The lawmaker added that many young Nigerians have chosen to stay and serve their country despite opportunities abroad, saying their patriotism should be applauded, not disparaged.

“Instead of discouraging our young citizens who are giving their best to this country, we should celebrate their excellence,” he said.

“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.”

Agbese commended the ministry of aviation and aerospace development led by Festus Keyamo for upholding safety standards.

“The aviation ministry under Festus Keyamo (SAN) has shown consistency in promoting safety, accountability, and inter-agency coordination,” he said.

“All the agencies, including FAAN, NCAA, NAMA, and NSIB, are doing commendable work to ensure that every aspect of air travel in Nigeria meets global expectations.”

He described Kalu’s statement as unfortunate, saying it could demoralise a sector that thrives on public trust.

“Distinguished Senator Kalu should retract that statement and offer an apology to our aviation professionals,” Agbese said.

“These are men and women who have built careers through discipline and integrity. We must be careful not to damage their reputation with sweeping claims that cannot be substantiated.”

Agbese reaffirmed the house’s commitment to supporting policies that promote safety, workforce training, and infrastructure in the aviation sector.

“It is natural for parliamentarians to demand better oversight and accountability in any sector, but our language must also inspire trust,” he said.

“The aviation industry thrives on public confidence, and our professionals have continued to justify that trust with diligence and skill.

“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 everyday, and we must keep encouraging them to do even more.”