The integration, part of NCAA’s push toward digitalisation, is aimed at curbing fraud, enhancing security, saving time, and streamlining paperwork across the aviation sector. The initiative was unveiled during the launch of the EMPIC Personnel Licensing and Medical Certification (PEL/MED) system and a stakeholder engagement in Abuja.
NCAA Director-General, Capt. Chris Najomo, said the system would significantly strengthen regulatory oversight, improve safety, and drive operational efficiency in the aviation industry. The platform, he explained, is fully aligned with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.
“For many years, the aviation sector relied on manual and semi-digital processes for licensing and medical certification. While these processes served their purpose, the increasing complexity of our industry, the demand for real-time regulatory oversight, and the expectations of a modern aviation workforce necessitated a shift toward a more robust and technology-driven approach,” Najomo said.
He added that the EMPIC PEL/MED system represents a “fundamental modernisation” of how the NCAA manages licensing, medical certification, inspector oversight, data integrity, and industry compliance. “With this system, stakeholders will now experience a fully digital process with improved turnaround times, a unified platform for applicants, inspectors, ATOs, AAMEs, and operators, and greater transparency and accountability supported by traceable workflows and audit trails,” he noted.
The system is scheduled to become fully operational on April 2, 2026, following a phased approach to ensure stability, stakeholder preparedness, and seamless data migration. Najomo urged all stakeholders to actively participate in post-launch transition activities to ensure smooth adoption.
Godwin Balang, NCAA’s Director of Aerodrome and Airspace Standards, said the system includes quality assurances to minimise errors and will be supported by four biometric data centres in Abuja, Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Kano for easy access by operators and personnel.
“This initiative is part of our broader vision to create a modern aviation environment that is competitive, efficient, and compliant with global best practices,” Najomo added.