The Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja have successfully completed the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Security Audit Programme under the Continuous Monitoring Approach (USAP-CMA).
According to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), the ICAO auditors praised Nigeria for its robust security policies, and agencies with clear mandates in airport security. Callum Vine, the leader of the ICAO team, commended the country’s performance and noted its high scores in key indicators.
Vine emphasised Nigeria’s success in addressing identified deficiencies promptly and without complaints. The full report of the audit will be provided to Nigeria within 60 days, following which the country will have 30 days to submit comments and outline its plan for compliance with ICAO regulations.
In response, the Managing Director of FAAN, Olubunmi Kuku, expressed gratitude for the audit results and pledged to utilise them as a guide for continuous improvement in airport services. Kuku urged all stakeholders to collaborate closely, share best practices, and uphold the highest standards of security in the Nigerian aviation industry.
The audit, which lasted two weeks, and concluded on March 22, 2024, covered various areas including inflight security, passenger and baggage security, acts of unlawful interference, facilitation, legislation, training, quality control function, operations and cargo, mail, and catering.
Present at the debriefing were Dr. Emmanuel Meribole, representing the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace, and Captain Chris Najomo, the Acting Director-General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).