The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued full aerodrome certificates to Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport in Kano and Port Harcourt International Airport, marking a significant boost to safety standards and operational credibility at two of Nigeria’s key international gateways.
The certifications were formally presented at a ceremony attended by top officials, with the Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, hailing the achievement as evidence of effective collaboration between regulator and operator.
Speaking at the event, Kuku described the certifications as more than a routine milestone. “This ceremony is not merely a procedural formality; it is a powerful testament to resilience, dedication, and a shared commitment to the highest standards of aviation safety in Nigeria,” she said.
She emphasised the rigorous process involving detailed inspections, corrective action notices and constructive engagement between FAAN and NCAA teams. “The NCAA, in its vital role as our regulator, was not just an overseer but a crucial partner in ensuring our strict compliance with standard and recommended practices,” Kuku noted, praising the regulator’s guidance and technical support.
The FAAN chief acknowledged outstanding items identified in the corrective action plan but gave firm assurances of prompt resolution. “We have already activated dedicated teams and processes to address them with urgency and precision. Our goal is absolute compliance, and we will not rest until every single item is conclusively resolved,” she stated.
Kuku underlined the broader implications of the certifications, saying they reinforce airline confidence, reassure passengers of world-class safety commitments and elevate Nigeria’s reputation in the global aviation community. “It is a clear signal that our airports are operated with integrity, professionalism, and in strict adherence to international benchmarks,” she added.
The aerodrome certification process, mandated under international aviation standards, confirms that an airport’s infrastructure, operations and safety management systems meet requirements set by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and enshrined in Nigerian regulations.
Achieving full certification for these major facilities strengthens Nigeria’s aviation sector at a time of growing passenger traffic and regional competition. It also supports efforts to attract more international routes and enhances the country’s eligibility for Category One status in global safety assessments.
