The Nigeria Civil Aviation of Nigeria (NCAA), on Friday, issued aerodrome certificates to Malam Aminu Kanu International Airport, Kano (MAKIA) and Jeremiah Obafemi Awolowo International Airport, Port Harcourt (JOAIA).

The NCAA director-general, Capt. Chris Najomo, in a presentation ceremony in Abuja, said aerodrome certification was not a ceremonial exercise, but a globally recognised attestation that aerodrome infrastructure was safe.

According to him, the certificate proves that the airport’s operational procedures meet international benchmarks and safety management systems are functional.

He explained that certification strengthened the airport’s risk profile in the eyes of insurers, often resulting in more favourable insurance premiums, improved underwriting conditions for  aerodrome operators, airlines and service providers operating at the airport.

Mr Najomo, who said the certificate was a seal of confidence for airlines, investors, and the travelling public, added that the certificate was another step towards strengthening Nigerian aviation credibility and competitiveness.

According to him, the certificate aligns with Aviation Minister’s five-point agenda and President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda which emphasise infrastructure renewal, institutional strengthening, and improved service delivery across strategic national sectors, including aviation.

“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 out of the five designated international airports in Nigeria.

“The earlier certified airports being Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja,” he added.

He stated that the NCAA conducted multiple inspections, issued Corrective Action Notices (CANs), and received from Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) a series of Corrective Action Plans (CAPs) addressing identified gap at both airports some months past.

He affirmed that the accomplishment was a collective commitment to strengthening aviation safety, regulatory compliance, and international confidence in Nigeria’s aviation system.

The director-general reaffirmed that NCAA would maintain continuous adherence to Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations and ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs), uphold robust safety management systems, and adopt technology-driven operational practices.

According to him, it will also ensure quality-driven and transparent processes that satisfy all stakeholders, while supporting the sustainable development of the aviation industry and national economy, in accordance with our mandate.

“We will continue to support FAAN and all other aerodrome operators through guidance, surveillance and constructive engagements,” NCAA boss said.

Speaking shortly after receiving the certificates for the airports, managing director of FAAN, Olubunmi Kuku, said the process involved in the certification was rigorous.

According to her, the process is defined by a series of meticulous inspections, constructive dialogue, and the diligent exchange of corrective action notices and plans.

“The NCAA, our regulator, is not just an overseer but a crucial partner in ensuring our strict compliance with standard and recommended practices by providing clear guidance, rigorous scrutiny, and invaluable technical counsel.

“Conversely, our FAAN teams in Kano and Port Harcourt, supported by our headquarters, demonstrated an unwavering commitment to meeting and exceeding these stringent requirements.

“This synergistic partnership, where the regulator guides and the operator implements, is the very model of how we can collectively elevate Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure,” she said.

According to her, the certificates are, therefore, a shared trophy, earned through a collaborative spirit that puts national interest and safety above all else.

 (NAN)