NCAA Hosts U.S. TSA Team for Comprehensive Aviation Security Assessment at Lagos Airport
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has hosted a delegation from the United States Transportation Security Administration (TSA) as part of an extensive aviation security assessment of Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Ikeja, Lagos, reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to global best practices in civil aviation security.
The engagement took place on January 26, 2026, at the NCAA Conference Hall Annex in Lagos, where officials of the Nigerian aviation regulator held a detailed briefing session with the visiting TSA team.
During the meeting, the U.S. delegation explained that the primary objective of the programme was to conduct a structured assessment of security measures at MMIA, Nigeria’s busiest international airport and a major gateway for flights operating between Nigeria and the United States.
The assessment forms part of routine evaluations conducted by the TSA at foreign airports that serve as last points of departure for U.S.-bound flights.
Such reviews are designed to ensure that aviation security measures at these airports meet the stringent requirements set by U.S. law and are consistent with international standards prescribed by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
Nigeria, as a contracting state to the Chicago Convention, is required to implement ICAO’s Standards and Recommended Practices, particularly those contained in Annex 17 on Aviation Security, which focuses on safeguarding civil aviation against acts of unlawful interference.
MMIA plays a strategic role in regional and intercontinental air travel, handling millions of passengers annually and serving as a hub for several international airlines, including carriers operating direct flights to the United States.
According to industry data, Lagos accounts for the highest volume of international passenger traffic in Nigeria, making the robustness of its security framework critical not only to national safety but also to sustaining international air connectivity and confidence.
During the assessment, the TSA team worked closely with NCAA’s Aviation Security (AVSEC) Directorate and relevant security units of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).
The evaluation covered key aspects of airport security operations, including passenger and baggage screening processes, access control to restricted areas, aircraft security procedures, staff training and certification, and the effectiveness of quality control and oversight mechanisms.
Attention was also given to the implementation of corrective actions from previous assessments, in line with Nigeria’s continuous improvement obligations under international aviation security audits.
The exercise also reflects ongoing cooperation between Nigeria and the United States in the area of aviation safety and security. Such collaboration has become increasingly important in the face of evolving global security threats, technological changes, and rising passenger volumes.
International assessments of this nature are widely regarded as essential tools for identifying gaps, sharing expertise, and strengthening the overall resilience of airport security systems.
The NCAA has reiterated that Nigeria remains committed to meeting and, where possible, exceeding international aviation security standards. The authority noted that regular assessments by external partners such as the TSA complement ICAO-led audits and help ensure that Nigerian airports remain compliant, secure, and competitive within the global aviation system.
At the conclusion of the visit, findings from the assessment are expected to be formally communicated to the relevant authorities, with recommendations to further enhance security measures at MMIA where necessary.
The outcome of the exercise is anticipated to contribute positively to Nigeria’s aviation security profile and to the continued safe operation of international flights, particularly those connecting Nigeria with the United States.
