NCAA issues aerodrome certificates to Kano, Port Harcourt airports

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued aerodrome certificates to the Malam Aminu International Airport in Kano, and the Jeremiah Obafemi Awolowo International Airport, Port Harcourt.

According to NAN, the certificates were presented on Friday in Abuja by Chris Najomo, director-general of the NCAA.

Najomo said the certification confirms that the airports’ operational procedures, and safety management systems meet international benchmarks.

He said aerodrome certification enhances the airports’ risk profile, improves their standing with insurers, often leads to more favourable insurance premiums, improves underwriting conditions for  aerodrome operators, airlines and service providers operating at the airport.

The DG, who said the certificate was a seal of confidence for airlines, investors, and the travelling public, added that the certificate is another step towards strengthening Nigerian aviation credibility and competitiveness.

“The certificate aligns with aviation minister’s five-point agenda and President Bola Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda which emphasise infrastructure renewal, institutional strengthening, and improved service delivery across strategic national sectors, including aviation,” Najomo said.

“I am pleased to state that through diligent collaboration and sustained effort, both MAKIA and JOAIA have now been adjudged compliant, and have no matters of significant safety concern outstanding.

“With today’s certification, the total number of Nigeria’s international airports that have been issued Aerodrome Certificates rises to four out of the five designated international airports in Nigeria.

“The earlier certified airports being Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.”

The NCAA boss said the certification followed multiple inspections, the issuance of corrective action notices, and the submission of corrective action plans by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to address identified gaps at both airports.

He said the achievement reflects a collective commitment to aviation safety, regulatory compliance, and international confidence in Nigeria’s aviation system.

Najomo added that the NCAA will continue to ensure strict adherence to the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations and the International Civil Aviation Organisation’s standards and recommended practices, uphold robust safety management systems, and adopt technology-driven operational practices.

The DG said the authority will also ensure quality-driven and transparent processes that satisfy all stakeholders, while supporting the sustainable development of the aviation industry and national economy, in accordance with its mandate.

‘CERTIFICATION FOLLOWED RIGOROUS PROCESS’

Speaking after receiving the certificates, Olubunmi Kuku, managing director (MD) of FAAN, said the certification followed rigorous process. 

She said it involved meticulous inspections, constructive dialogue, and the diligent exchange of corrective action notices and plans.

“The NCAA, our regulator, is not just an overseer but a crucial partner in ensuring our strict compliance with standard and recommended practices by providing clear guidance, rigorous scrutiny, and invaluable technical counsel,” Kuku said.

She added that FAAN teams in Kano and Port Harcourt, with support from headquarters, demonstrated strong commitment to meeting the stringent requirements.

According to the MD, the certification is a shared achievement earned through collaboration that prioritises safety and national interest.