Nigeria Achieves 91.4% in ICVM Audit Safety Rating
Nigeria’s aviation sector has recorded a significant rebound, achieving a 91.4% Effective Implementation score in the International Civil Aviation Organization Coordinated Validation Mission, ICVM audit conducted by the International Civil Aviation Organization Coordinated Validation Mission. The exercise took place between April 15 and April 22, 2026, marking a strong improvement in the nation’s safety oversight performance.
The ICVM audit is a follow-up safety oversight review conducted by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) after a country has already undergone a full safety audit.
It assesses how effectively a country has implemented corrective actions in aviation safety oversight, regulations, and compliance systems. The ICVM audit validates whether safety regulations are properly implemented, oversight systems are functioning effectively, previously identified deficiencies have been corrected, and aviation authorities are consistently maintaining ICAO standards.
Speaking during the closing briefing at the Authority’s Headquarters in Abuja on April 22, 2026, the Director-General Civil Aviation, Capt. Chris Najomo, described the ICVM audit as a critical independent tool for assessing safety systems. He noted that it helps identify internal strengths, weaknesses, and external risks affecting Nigeria’s aviation safety oversight mandate.
Meanwhile, Capt. Najomo emphasised that the results remain subject to further validation by the Safety and Air Navigation Oversight Audit Section of the International Civil Aviation Organization. However, he expressed optimism that Nigeria’s Protocol Questions outcomes will improve significantly, driven by corrective actions already implemented and evidence submitted during the review process.
In addition, he commended the professionalism of the audit teams, both onsite and remote. He assured that Nigeria would carefully review and implement all recommendations arising from the ICVM audit process to strengthen safety compliance and operational standards across the aviation sector.
Stakeholder Collaboration and Reform Progress
Capt. Najomo also acknowledged the strong support from the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo (SAN), describing it as crucial to the success of the mission. He further appreciated the contributions of key aviation agencies, including the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), and Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA).
The Director-General added that operators, service providers, and the NCAA technical teams worked diligently throughout the ICVM audit exercise. Their coordination ensured smooth engagement with auditors and improved documentation of Nigeria’s safety oversight systems.
Moreover, he recognised the role of the Regional Safety Oversight Organisation, BAGASOO, for providing technical experts before and during the mission. Their input helped strengthen Nigeria’s readiness and compliance posture ahead of the validation process.
From 70% to 91.4%: A Major Safety Leap
Recall that Nigeria previously underwent an ICAO Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme- Continuous Monitoring Approach between August and September 2023, recording a 70% safety rating. At the time, the result was considered below global expectations for optimal aviation safety compliance.
However, following the 2023 findings, Nigeria initiated a structured reform process. Authorities conducted a detailed root cause analysis and developed corrective action plans. These plans were validated by the International Civil Aviation Organization, forming a roadmap for sustained improvement in aviation safety oversight.
Consequently, the latest ICVM audit result reflects the impact of those reforms. It also signals progress in closing identified gaps, improving regulatory efficiency, and strengthening compliance across the aviation ecosystem.
Conclusion
The 91.4% score in the ICVM audit represents a notable milestone for Nigeria’s aviation industry. It underscores improved safety oversight, stronger institutional coordination, and renewed regulatory confidence.
Nevertheless, aviation authorities maintain that continuous improvement remains essential. Therefore, the focus now shifts to sustaining reforms, implementing recommendations, and ensuring Nigeria’s aviation safety systems align fully with global standards.
