ICAO Begins Security Audit of Lagos and Abuja Airports

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has commenced a security audit of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NNIA) in Abuja.

The audit, which began on Monday, is part of the 2024 ICAO Universal Security Audit Programme (USAP) through Continuous Monitoring Approach (CMA).

The four-man team, led by Callum Vine, will evaluate various aspects of airport security, including Inflight Security (IFS), Passenger and Baggage Security (PAX), Acts of Unlawful Interference (AUI), Facilitation (FAL), Legislation (LEG), Training (TRG), Quality Control Function (QCF), Operations (OPS), and Cargo, Mail, and Catering (CGO).

Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, welcomed the ICAO team and emphasized the importance of upholding the highest standards of security across all facets of Nigeria’s aviation industry.

Keyamo, represented by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Emmanuel Meribole, commended the dedication and diligence of all stakeholders, including regulatory bodies, security agencies, service providers, and aviation security personnel.

Acting Director General of Civil Aviation, Nigeria, Capt. Chris Najomo, highlighted the objectives of the ICAO USAP CMA, which include improving global aviation security and assessing the level of effective implementation of critical elements of the States’ AVSEC oversight system.

The audit will also assess the degree of compliance of the State with Annex 9 and 17 of the Convention on International Civil Aviation and AVSEC standards.

As part of the on-site auditing process, both MMIA in Lagos and NAIA in Abuja have been selected for verification of the implementation of security measures.

Capt. Najomo expressed optimism that Nigeria will surpass its last rating, considering the progressive transformations that have taken place in the industry and the current administration’s commitment to ensuring secure, safe, and efficient air transportation in Nigeria.