The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued Aerodrome Certificates to Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA) and Jeremiah Obafemi Awolowo International Airport, Port Harcourt (JOAIA).
The official issuance of the Aerodrome Certificates, the Authority noted, marked another milestone in collective commitment to strengthening aviation safety, regulatory compliance, and international confidence in Nigeria’s aviation system.
Its Director General, Capt. Chris Najomo said on Friday that the process was not merely procedural, but, it was, indeed, a demonstration of the NCAA’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that every aerodrome in Nigeria meets the requirements prescribed in the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations 2023 Part 12, Vol. I which represents the domesticated version of ICAO Annex 14, Volume I.
He said: “The FAAN MD will recall the extensive journey of cooperation and collaboration that has brought us to this momentous occasion.
“Over the past months, NCAA conducted multiple inspections, issued Corrective Action Notices (CANs), and received from FAAN a series of Corrective Action Plans (CAPs) addressing identified gap at both airports.
“I am pleased to state that through diligent collaboration and sustained effort, both MAKIA and JOAIA have now been adjudged compliant, and have no matters of significant safety concern outstanding.
“With today’s certification, the total number of Nigeria’s international airports that have been issued Aerodrome Certificates rises to four (4) out of the five (5) designated international airports in Nigeria; the earlier certified airports being Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.”
Also, the Managing Director of Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, said, today, we celebrate a monumental feat, but I wish to highlight that the true success story here is exemplary interagency cooperation.
She said the ceremony was not merely a procedural formality; but a powerful testament to resilience, dedication, and a shared commitment to the highest standards of aviation safety in Nigeria.
She noted: “The journey to this certification was rigorous, defined by a series of meticulous inspections, constructive dialogue, and the diligent exchange of Corrective Action Notices and Plans.
” The NCAA, in its vital role as our regulator, was not just an overseer but a crucial partner in ensuring our strict compliance with standard and recommended practices.
“Your team provided clear guidance, rigorous scrutiny, and invaluable technical counsel throughout the entire process. Conversely, our FAAN teams in Kano and Port Harcourt, supported by our headquarters, demonstrated an unwavering commitment to meeting and exceeding these stringent requirements.”