The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has recertified the aerodromes at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja (NAIA), and Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos (MMIA), marking a critical step towards maintaining international aviation standards in the country.
The certificates were presented by Captain Chris Najomo, Acting Director General of the NCAA, to Olubunmi Kuku, Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), during a formal event.
Both airports were initially certified in 2017 under the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards. Certifications lapsed in November 2020, after their initial three-year duration. A six-month extension was granted due to disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, contingent on FAAN addressing Corrective Action Plans (CAPs) for outstanding certification issues.
Commitment to aviation safety
FAAN resolved 136 issues at MMIA and 29 issues at NAIA as part of the re-certification process. The recertification reflects compliance with ICAO’s minimum requirements based on risk assessments, although not all areas were 100% compliant. Restrictions and exemptions were applied to address ongoing non-compliances.
The renewal underscores Nigeria’s commitment to aviation safety and aligns with global standards, promoting the seamless operation of international flights. NCAA inspectors will conduct post-certification surveillance to ensure the implementation of CAPs and sustained compliance with ICAO standards.
The Acting Director General of NCAA, Captain Chris Najomo, hailed the milestone as a step forward for aviation safety in Nigeria. He also urged FAAN to uphold high safety standards and ensure smooth certification renewal in the future. Managing Director of FAAN, Olubunmi Kuku, emphasized the rigorous nature of the recertification process, including assessments of airport infrastructure such as runways and airfield lighting. Olubunm highlighted FAAN’s dedication to aligning with ICAO’s Annex 14 framework for efficient, modern aviation facilities.