The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has entered a new era of digital transformation with the official launch and operationalization of the EMPIC Personnel Licensing/Medical (PEL/MED) Digital Licensing System, unveiled during an internal stakeholders’ engagement held on 5th December 2025 by the Directorate of Aerodrome and Airspace Standards (DAAS).
While expressing pride in the transformation, the Director-General, Civil Aviation (DGCA), Capt. Chris Najomo, in his opening remarks, stated that the transition forms part of a broader digital transformation project within the Authority’s safety regulatory mandate, emphasising its positive impact on Pilots, Cabin Crew, and Air Traffic Controllers.
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The EMPIC system, which covers PEL processes and related technical functions, including aircraft registration and type certification, will be implemented in phased rollout, beginning with PEL, and later to incorporate the Aeromedical (MED) Module.
The project aims to modernise PEL, and enhance aviation safety by introducing secure, card-based licences embedded with QR codes.
A structured engagement strategy has been launched to prepare internal staff across relevant directorates, manage expectations around moving away from manual processes and ensure smooth adoption without disruption.
Engr Balang Godwin, Director of Aerodrome and Airspace Standards, outlined the phased rollout plan, showcased the sample licences, and detailed plans to establish biometric data-capture centres in Abuja, Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Kano.
The director also stressed relevance of strict adherence to the new digital process to ensure a smooth transition ahead of its full authorisation in 2026.
