The Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja and Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos have been recertified. The recertification of Nigeria’s international airports by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) follows years of rigorous assessments and improvements. Nigeria’s international airports were last certified under the Aerodrome Certification process in 2020. However, the certificates had remained inactive until this momentous recertification.
NCAA’s Take
In his address, Acting Director-General Captain Chris Najomo emphasized the complexity of the certification process, highlighting the significant challenges involved. He pointed out that FAAN and NCAA had to address 29 and 136 outstanding issues for NAIA and MMIA, respectively. “It was no mean feat,” he remarked, acknowledging the intensive efforts required to resolve these critical certification findings. This accomplishment reflects the commitment and collaboration between both agencies, working diligently to enhance safety and ensure compliance with international standards.
Although renewing the aerodrome certificates is a significant achievement, it does not indicate full compliance with all safety standards. Najomo clarified that the certificates reflect compliance with the minimum certification requirements, based on risk assessments and the presentation of an acceptable Corrective Action Plan (CAP). He emphasized that while progress has been made, areas of non-compliance still require attention, with FAAN continuing to implement CAPs. NCAA’s safety inspectors will monitor this ongoing process, ensuring that corrective actions are sustained.
Looking ahead, Najomo stressed the importance of continued vigilance and commitment from all stakeholders to maintain and improve safety standards at both NAIA and MMIA. The success of this recertification serves as a reminder that compliance is an ongoing process, not a final destination. FAAN and NCAA must remain dedicated to addressing safety concerns promptly and maintaining the momentum of their improvements.
FAAN’s Take
Also speaking, Olubunmi Kuku, Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), expressed her pride and gratitude during the ceremony marking the recertification of Nigeria’s international airports in Lagos and Abuja. “This achievement reflects not only our hard work but also the commitment and expertise of everyone involved,” Kuku said, acknowledging the teams’ dedication to upholding international standards.
The recertification process adhered to the principles established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Rigorous evaluations of runway conditions, airfield lighting systems, and other key facilities ensured compliance with ICAO’s safety standards. Kuku emphasized the importance of these assessments in guaranteeing a secure and efficient air travel experience for all passengers.
As part of the process, improvements have been made to key facilities. “I would like to highlight the ongoing assessments and improvements regarding the two primary runways in Lagos 18R. The runways are crucial for our operations, and their conditions directly influence the efficiency and safety of air traffic. We are also focusing our attention on the taxiways A, B, and C, which are vital connectors facilitating smooth movement of aircraft on the ground. In Abuja, the primary runway also requires our continued commitment to ensure it continues to meet ICAO standards. Our goal is to enhance these facilities further to provide a seamless travel experience for all passengers.” She highlighted.
While acknowledging the progress made, Kuku emphasized the need for further improvements. She said, “Specifically, some of our runways and airfield lighting systems require further attention to meet the ICAO standards fully. It is crucial that we continue to prioritise these improvements to enhance the safety and efficiency of our operations. We are addressing these challenges head-on and will allocate the necessary resources to expedite these improvements.
In conclusion, Kuku stressed the importance of continued collaboration in advancing the country’s aviation sector. “Together, with the expertise and determination of our teams, we will continue to elevate Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure to meet and exceed the expectations of our passengers and stakeholders,” she said.
