Nigeria sought a shift in ICAO Security Audit due to the close proximity to the USOAP Continuous Monitoring Approach, just six weeks apart.
To adequately prepare, considering Nigeria’s impressive 96.4% score in the previous audit, the request seemed reasonable.
However, recent changes in leadership, marked by alleged improper placements, could jeopardize Nigeria’s chances in the ICAO Security Audit.
On December 21, the government appointed 46 directors to aviation agencies, sparking concern with a grade level 13 officer leading Security.
The new director faces the challenge of leading officers on Grade level 17, triggering apprehension about potential disruptions to the audit.
Sources indicate that this sudden change introduces a significant hurdle, as the new director, an assistant commissioner of police lacks the experience required.
An anonymous insider revealed, “The USOAP postponement aimed to grant Nigeria more preparation time. However, this recent appointment introduces a crucial player mid-preparation, creating a challenging situation.”
He emphasized that the director needs around two years to grasp the role properly, time Nigeria cannot afford with the imminent audit.
He added, “Inexperienced appointments tend to delay progress as they take time to understand the system and make informed decisions.”
Moreover, the shift in leadership within the higher grade level officers could lead to poor morale within the rank and file.
Addressing the issue, the source highlighted the absence of clear role requirements by NCAA. This, he said, creates a gap that encourages such unstructured appointments.
