Nigeria: ICAO commences security audit of Lagos, Abuja airports, as NCAA prepares for rigorous assessment

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has launched its 2024 Universal Security Audit Programme (USAP) through Continuous Monitoring Approach (CMA) at Lagos and Abuja airports, marking the commencement of a comprehensive two-week assessment.

In a statement signed by Mr Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs & Consumer Protection, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority announced that a four-man team of auditors, led by Callum Vine, arrived in Abuja to oversee the audit, which will conclude on March 22, 2024.

The audit, according to the NCAA, will evaluate various aspects of security measures at the airports, including Inflight Security, Passenger and Baggage Security, Acts of Unlawful Interference, Facilitation, Legislation, Training, Quality Control Function, Operations, and Cargo, Mail, and Catering.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Festus Keyamo, the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, was said to have emphasised the significance of the Universal Security Audit Programme in upholding the highest standards of security in Nigeria’s aviation industry. 

He stressed the importance of collaborative efforts to fortify defences against evolving threats.

Representing the Minister, the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Emmanuel Meribole, commended the dedication of stakeholders, including regulatory bodies, security agencies, and aviation personnel, expressing hope for a successful audit without any Significant Security Concern.

Capt. Chris Ona Najomo, Acting Director General of Civil Aviation, Nigeria, welcomed the ICAO auditors and outlined the objectives of the audit, which include improving global aviation security through continuous monitoring and assessing the effective implementation of critical security elements.

Both Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA), Abuja, have been selected for on-site auditing to verify the implementation of security measures. 

Capt. Najomo expressed optimism about Nigeria’s performance, citing progressive transformations in the industry and the current administration’s commitment to ensuring secure air transportation.

The NCAA reiterated its commitment to the development, implementation, and maintenance of the National Civil Aviation Security Programme (NCASP). 

To prepare for the audit, the authority said the Banjul Accord Group Aviation Safety Oversight Organisation (BAGASOO) conducted Aviation Security (AVSEC) Mock Audits at Lagos and Abuja airports earlier in March.

The audit represents a crucial step for Nigeria in maintaining and enhancing its aviation security standards. 

With collaborative efforts and a commitment to excellence, the NCAA assured that Nigeria aims to demonstrate its readiness to address security challenges in the aviation sector.