US TSA Begins MMIA Lagos Security Assessment Visit

The United States Transportation Security Administration (US TSA) has commenced a MMIA Lagos security assessment at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos. The assessment is scheduled from June 10 to June 13, 2025, and involves a comprehensive evaluation of security standards.

The five-person delegation is led by Aron Tomchuck and includes Lori Silcox, the US TSA Representative for West Africa. Others in the team are Julian Persaud, Director, Regional Operation Centre, Abu Dhabi, Richartha Bartley, and Ruth Gaertner. They are working in close collaboration with Nigerian aviation security authorities.

The visit is focused on reviewing Nigeria’s implementation of Civil Aviation Security (AVSEC) Standards and Recommended Practices. These standards are found in Annexes 14 and 17 of the Convention on International Civil Aviation, to which Nigeria is a signatory. The team will inspect several critical areas of airport security operations.

Key areas of evaluation include training and staff qualifications, access control, passenger and baggage screening procedures, and aircraft security. The team will also assess security of cargo, mail, and other goods. Emphasis will be placed on measures for special category passengers and prevention of unlawful interference.

Additionally, quality control systems, security culture, landside protection, and cybersecurity preparedness are also under review. The TSA team will re-evaluate earlier identified deficiencies to check if corrective actions have been properly implemented. These actions are part of Nigeria’s Corrective Action Plan (CAP).

As part of the ongoing MMIA Lagos security assessment, the US TSA team will inspect US-based aircraft operators, specifically Delta Airlines and United Airlines. The goal is to ensure compliance with TSA security regulations by both airlines and their ground service providers operating at the Lagos airport.

Supporting the US TSA are security officers from the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN). Representing NCAA is General Manager, Evaluation & Regulations, Mr. Akoja Okplefu. From FAAN, Mrs. Hilary Ibiere, General Manager, AVSEC Operations, is leading her team.

This joint effort reinforces the strong security partnership between the United States and Nigeria in advancing global aviation safety. It also underscores the strategic importance of MMIA as a major West African aviation hub. The visit affirms Nigeria’s commitment to meeting global aviation security standards.

Authorities say outcomes from the visit will further help in aligning Nigeria’s aviation security with international benchmarks, ensuring safer skies for all.