NCAA Certification: How Four Major Nigeria Airports Met Global Safety Standards

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) recently issued aerodrome certificates to two major international gateways. These airports are the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA) and the Obafemi Jeremiah Awolowo International Airport, Port Harcourt (JOAIA). This significant achievement brings the total number of certified international airports in Nigeria to four. The other two certified airports are Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

Meeting Global Safety Standards

Aerodrome certification is not a simple procedural step. It is a globally recognized attestation of safety. The certification confirms that the airports meet International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards. ICAO standards are detailed in Annex 14 standards, which govern aerodrome design and operations.

Compliance with Annex 14 ensures safe, uniform operations worldwide. This process requires a robust Safety Management System (SMS). It also demands competent staff and adequate facilities. These facilities include rescue, firefighting, and lighting equipment. The NCAA Director General, Captain Chris Najomo, confirmed this commitment. He noted the process ensures compliance with the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations. This regulation is the local version of ICAO Annex 14, Volume I.

The Rigorous Certification Journey

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) undertook a rigorous journey. FAAN management, led by Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, was determined to close all identified gaps. The NCAA conducted multiple inspections over several months. They issued Corrective Action Notices (CANs) to FAAN. FAAN responded with Corrective Action Plans (CAPs).

Efforts included facility upgrades and manpower training. Airfield lighting and runway markings were totally revamped. Director General Najomo confirmed both MAKIA and JOAIA are now compliant. He stated there are “no matters of significant safety concern outstanding”. Mrs. Kuku praised the exemplary interagency cooperation. She called the certificates a “shared trophy” of collaboration.

Economic and Global Impact

This certification carries important economic benefits. It strengthens the airport’s risk profile for insurers. Experts expect a downward review of aircraft insurance premium. Nigerian aviation has historically faced high insurance rates. Certification mitigates ground risk in the eyes of insurers.

• It serves as a seal of confidence for airlines and investors.
• International airlines prefer operating to ICAO-certified airports.
• It enhances Nigeria’s standing within the international aviation community.
• Certification reduces the country’s perceived risk.

Former NCAA Director General, Captain Fola Akinkuotu, called the certification commendable. He noted it confirms the airports meet global standards. The FAA (FAA) and other global regulators monitor such compliance. This move is a fundamental shift toward a global aviation hub. Sustaining this compliance is key to long-term success, as noted in previous recertification efforts for Lagos and Abuja. For more commercial aviation news, visit flying.flights.

This achievement follows the recertification of the Lagos airport. That recertification happened under Mrs. Kuku after a long hiatus. The current FAAN management is poised to achieve more goals.