Safety: Kano, Port Harcourt Airports Get Aerodrome Certification

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Agency (NCAA) has issued aerodrome certificates to Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA) and Jeremiah Obafemi Awolowo International Airport, Port Harcourt (JOAIA).

While officially presenting the certificates to the managing director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, and her team, the director-general of NCAA, Captain Chris Najomo, said through diligent collaboration and sustained effort, both MAKIA and JOAIA have now been adjudged compliant, and have no matters of significant safety concern outstanding.

He further stated that, “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 also stated that, “it is important to emphasize that Aerodrome certification is not a ceremonial exercise, but a globally recognised attestation that aerodrome infrastructure is safe; operational procedures meet international benchmarks, and safety management systems are functional.

“It also carries important economic implications: certification strengthens the airport’s risk profile in the eyes of insurers, often resulting in more favourable insurance premiums and improved underwriting conditions for both the aerodrome operator and, in some cases, the airlines and service providers operating at the airport. For airlines, investors, and the travelling public, this certificate is a seal of confidence.”

In her acceptance speech, the managing director of FAAN Kuku said: “We receive these certificates with humility and a clear understanding of the responsibility they confer. We acknowledge the Authority’s note regarding the outstanding items in the corrective action plan. Let me assure the NCAA of our strict adherence to this corrective action plan.”

Speaking on the rigorous process of getting the certificates, she said: “Today, we celebrate a monumental feat, but I wish to highlight that the true success story here is exemplary inter-agency cooperation. 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.

“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. Today’s certificates are, therefore, a shared trophy, earned through a collaborative spirit that puts national interest and safety above all else.”