NCAA Marks First Phase Of Airport Certification Action Plan, Certifies MMIA, NAIA
The Acting Director General, Civil Aviation, Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Chris Najomo says today’s presentation and renewal of the Aerodrome Certificate for Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA), Abuja and Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMA), marks the first phase of the CAAs action plan for the certification of the aerodromes.
“In the second phase, we hope to implement the plan by certifying the remaining airports in line with the regulations and international protocols,” said Najomo while presenting the certificates to the Managing Director/Chief Executive of Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku.
Najomo however said “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.”
He explained that “in March 2001, the ICAO Council adopted a new Standard that required certification of aerodromes used for international operations. This Standard became applicable November 27th 2003. Nigeria initially complied with this provision by certifying two international airports in 2017. The 3-year duration of those certificates lapsed in November 2020 in line with the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations in force then.
At the expiration of NAIA & MMIA aerodrome certificates, a six (6) 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 resolve 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. I have deliberately taken us down this memory lane in order to have a proper perspective of what is being celebrated here today.
For further emphasis, today’s ceremony – the renewal of the aerodrome certificates – mark an important milestone in our journey towards achieving excellence in aviation safety and security. It is an attestation to the visionary leadership of the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo SAN, in particular, and ultimately Mr. President through his Renewed Hope Agenda in general.”
He congratulated the airport operator, FAAN, led by the current MD, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku on this remarkable achievement. “In doing so, I appeal for continuous maintenance of high safety standards that prioritize the safety and comfort of passengers, airport users, staff and the public. I have no doubt that FAAN will align itself with these ideals. This will further ensure that subsequent certification renewal processes are seamless in keeping with my mantra of ease-of-doing-business without compromise of standards, he said, adding that “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.”
In her speech, Mrs. Kuku said “the recertification process is not merely a formality. It is anchored on the principles established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). As you may be aware, the ICAO Annexes, particularly Annex 14, which pertains to Aerodromes, provide the framework for ensuring that our airports are safe, efficient, and capable of meeting the demands of modern aviation. This process involves rigorous assessments of our facilities, including runway conditions and airfield lighting systems, to ensure compliance with these global standards.
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 meets ICAO standards. Our goal is to enhance these facilities further to provide a seamless travel experience for all passengers.
While we have made commendable strides in our recertification efforts, I must emphasize that 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 prioritize 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.”
She said: “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.”
Kuku added that “the milestone is not just a reflection of FAAN’s achievements but also a testament to the dedication and hard work of every individual involved in this extensive process. She acknowledged the relentless efforts of FAAN airport managers and their teams, stating that “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.”
She equally emphasized “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.”
