NCAA Hands Over Aerodrome Certificate for Akanu Ibiam International Airport to FAAN

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has formally presented the Aerodrome Certificate for the Akanu Ibiam International Airport (AIIA), Enugu, to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), in a move described as a major boost to aviation safety and regulatory compliance in the country.

The presentation ceremony, which took place on 14 April 2026 at the NCAA Corporate Headquarters in Abuja, underscored Nigeria’s ongoing commitment to aligning its aviation infrastructure with global standards.

Speaking at the event, the Director-General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Capt. Chris Najomo, who was represented by the Director of Aerodrome and Airspace Standards, Alhaji Ahmad Abba, mni, characterised the certification as a significant milestone for the Nigerian aviation sector.

He noted that the achievement reflects the Authority’s steadfast dedication to upholding safety, ensuring strict regulatory compliance, and maintaining alignment with the Standards and Recommended Practices of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

He further emphasised that the certification comes at a critical time as Nigeria prepares for the ICAO Continuous Monitoring Approach (CMA) activities, which assess the level of compliance of member states with international aviation safety standards.

Capt. Najomo commended FAAN for its cooperation, resilience, and commitment throughout the rigorous five-phase aerodrome certification process. According to him, the successful certification is a testament to the collaborative efforts between the regulatory authority and the airport operator in achieving internationally recognised safety benchmarks.

In her remarks, the Managing Director of FAAN, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, represented by the Director of Commercial and Business Development, Ms. Adebola Agunbiade, expressed appreciation to the NCAA leadership, technical teams from both organisations, and other critical stakeholders whose contributions ensured the successful certification of the Enugu airport.

She assured that FAAN would not relent in sustaining compliance with regulatory requirements, adding that the Authority remains committed to continuous improvement of operational standards across all airports under its management.

The certification of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport is expected to enhance operational efficiency, boost passenger confidence, and further position Nigeria’s aviation sector within the global safety and regulatory framework.