Lagos Murtala, Abuja Azikiwe airports get NCAA recertification on safety

• Najomo says all 165 open items for both airports fully closed

Olubunmi Kuku (left), managing director, FAAN, and Chris Najomo, acting director general, NCAA, during the presentation of the the certificate in Abuja

Sade Williams/Business a.m.

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has completed the recertification of Murtala Muhammed International airport, Lagos and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International airport,  Abuja just as the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has pledged to do more to enhance safety and passenger experience at Nigeria’s airports.

Speaking during the presentation of the recertification, Olubunmi Kuku, managing director, FAAN, described the event as a momentous occasion, adding that the milestone is not just a reflection of its achievements but a testament to the dedication and hard work of every individual involved in the extensive process.

Kuku, who  acknowledged the commitment of FAAN managers in the process, said: “As we celebrate this significant progress, your commitment to excellence has brought us to this pivotal point in our journey toward ensuring that our airports meet the highest international standards. Your teamwork, expertise, and unwavering dedication have made it possible for us to reach this stage, and for that, I extend my heartfelt gratitude.

“It is important to note that our Aerodrome certificates have not been active since 2020. Therefore, achieving this recertification is not just remarkable; it is a vital step in enhancing our aviation infrastructure, which has long been overdue. This accomplishment is a clear indication of our commitment to providing a safe and efficient air travel experience for all,” she said.

According to Kuku,  the recertification process is not merely a formality; it is anchored in the principles established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

While highlighting some improvements at the airports, Kuku said: “Specifically, I would like to highlight the ongoing assessments and improvements regarding the two primary runways in Lagos 18R. The runways are crucial for our operations, and their conditions directly influence the efficiency and safety of air traffic. We are also focusing our attention on the taxiways A, B, and C, which are vital connectors that facilitate the smooth movement of aircraft on the ground. In Abuja, the primary runway also requires our continued commitment to ensure it continues to meet ICAO standards. Our goal is to enhance these facilities further to provide a seamless travel experience for all passengers.”

She disclosed that FAAN has made commendable strides in its recertification efforts, but said there is still work to be done.

“Specifically, some of our runways and airfield lighting systems require further attention to meet the ICAO standards fully. It is crucial that we continue to prioritise these improvements to enhance the safety and efficiency of our operations. We are committed to addressing these challenges head-on, and I assure you that we will allocate the necessary resources to expedite these improvements,

“As we move forward, it is imperative that we maintain the momentum we have built through collaboration and shared goals. The path ahead may present challenges, but with the collective expertise and determination of our teams, I am confident that we will navigate them successfully,” Kuku added.

Also speaking, Chris Najomo, director general, NCAA, said the renewal of the aerodrome certificates marks an important milestone in the journey towards achieving excellence in aviation safety and security, adding that it is an attestation to the visionary leadership of the minister of aviation and aerospace development, Festus Keyamo in particular, and ultimately, Mr. President through his Renewed Hope Agenda in general.

“I must reiterate that the presentation of these certificates is not an indication that the airports are 100% compliant with safety standards but it is a testament of their compliance with the minimum certification and operating requirements based on risk assessment and presentation of an acceptable Corrective Action Plan (CAP) for continuous implementation by the aerodrome operator. The observed non compliances have resulted into applicable restrictions and exemptions to reflect the true status of the aerodromes. In the meantime, the implementation of these CAPs will be monitored by our safety inspectors through post certification surveillance activities. Therefore, we are not to rest on our oars, but rather, leave our sleeves up and keep working.”

Najomo, who detailed the recertification experience, said all 165 open items for both airports have been closed.

“At the expiration of NAIA & MMIA aerodrome certificates, a six month extension was granted to FAAN to operate the aerodromes due to the COVID-19 Pandemic which we all remember had devastating effects on the aviation sector. However, the extension was granted on the condition that FAAN resolves all outstanding certification CAP items and complete the re-certification process within the extension period. To be detailed, there were 136 items for MMIA and 29 items for NAIA, so this was no mean feat.

“Since then, NCAA and FAAN got down to the hard work of ensuring closure of the critical certification findings as required by the regulations.

“On our part as NCAA, we remain irrevocably committed to ensuring that our airports meet the highest safety and security standards. As the regulatory body, we will continue to work closely with the airport operators to ensure consistent compliance with international best practices,” he said.