The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has renewed the aerodrome certificates for Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA), Abuja and Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos.
The renewal was announced by NCAA’s acting director-general, Capt. Chris Najomo during a ceremony in Abuja. He described the event as a significant milestone in advancing aviation safety and security in Nigeria.
Najomo explained that this renewal represents the first phase of the NCAA’s action plan for aerodrome certification. “In the second phase, we hope to implement the plan by certifying the remaining airports in line with the regulations and international protocols,” he said.
Providing historical context, Najomo recalled that in March 2001, the ICAO Council introduced a standard mandating the certification of aerodromes used for international operations. This standard became applicable on November 27, 2003. Nigeria initially complied by certifying NAIA and MMIA in 2017. However, the three-year certificates expired in November 2020, as stipulated by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations.
Following the expiration, a six-month extension was granted to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to continue operating the aerodromes. This extension, necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic, was contingent on FAAN addressing outstanding certification Corrective Action Plan (CAP) items and completing the re-certification process. Najomo noted that this was a challenging task, with 136 CAP items for MMIA and 29 for NAIA.
“Today’s ceremony—the renewal of the aerodrome certificates—is a testament to the visionary leadership of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo SAN, and ultimately Mr. President’s ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda,” Najomo said.
He emphasised that the certificates do not signify full compliance with all safety standards but confirm adherence to the minimum certification and operational requirements. “The observed non-compliances have led to applicable restrictions and exemptions to reflect the true status of the aerodromes. The implementation of these CAPs will be monitored by our safety inspectors through post-certification surveillance activities. We must keep working and not rest on our oars,” he stated.
Najomo commended FAAN, led by its managing director, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku for achieving this milestone. He urged FAAN to maintain high safety standards to ensure passenger safety and comfort. “I have no doubt that FAAN will align itself with these ideals, ensuring seamless subsequent certification renewals while prioritizing ease-of-doing-business without compromising standards,” he added.
He further reaffirmed the NCAA’s commitment to upholding safety and security in Nigerian airports. “As the regulatory body, we will continue to work closely with airport operators to ensure consistent compliance with international best practices,” Najomo concluded.
