Special Adviser on Media and Communications to Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Tunde Moshood, has slammed Senator Orji Kalu for alleging that Nigerian pilots and cabin crew take smoke igbò (substance abuse).

According to Moshood, Kalu’s statement was reckless, baseless, and politically motivated.

He further accused him of being in desperate need of media attention.

He said; “It is one thing to call for higher standards; it is another to make wild claims without a shred of evidence.”

He added that Kalu’s remarks undermined the credibility of the aviation sector and insulted thousands of professionals who dedicate their lives daily to ensuring passenger safety.

The aide stressed that Nigeria’s aviation industry operates under some of the world’s strictest safety regulations, with regular medical and psychological tests conducted on all licensed aviation professionals in line with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.

Moshood, in the statement, also revisited the former governor of Avis State’s past in the aviation business, recalling the rise and fall of his defunct airline, Slok Air, founded in 1996.

He argued that Kalu might have made such comments due to lingering resentment of a failed aviation enterprise.

According to Moshood, it was ironic for someone whose own airline collapsed to accuse the current aviation administration of negligence.

He also defended Keyamo’s leadership, while outlining several of his reforms, including

“Implementation of the IDERA Framework: which strengthened Nigeria’s aircraft leasing and financing standards.

“Negotiation of new Bilateral Air Service Agreements (BASAs) to expand Nigeria’s global aviation partnerships.

“Consumer Protection Initiatives through a new NCAA digital portal for passenger rights. Airport Infrastructure Upgrades at major terminals like the Murtala Muhammed International Airport.

“Enhanced Regulatory Oversight: aligning all aviation agencies under a unified, performance-driven vision.

He added “These are not the hallmarks of a system plagued by negligence or substance abuse, but rather of one being rebuilt on integrity and international best practice.

Moshood urged Senator Kalu to always retrain himself in public commentary adding that while constructive criticism is welcome in a democracy, reckless statements from senior politicians could erode public trust and damage Nigeria’s international reputation.

“The he aviation sector needs encouragement, not careless words that could ground confidence.”