Nigeria has taken another step toward strengthening its aviation safety framework with the certification of Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu, in the country’s South-East.
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority formally presented the aerodrome certificate to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria at its corporate headquarters in Abuja.
The certification marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s aviation sector as regulators continue to align airport operations with global safety and compliance standards.
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Aviation Safety Standards
Speaking at the event, Chris Najomo represented by Ahmad Abba described the achievement as a major step forward.
He said the certification reflects the regulators commitment to safety oversight regulatory compliance and adherence to international aviation standards.
The process ensures that airport infrastructure operations and safety management systems meet strict global benchmarks set by the International Civil Aviation Organization.
Phase Certification Process
Officials confirmed that the certification followed a rigorous five phase process designed to evaluate all aspects of airport operations.
This includes:
- Infrastructure and runway conditions
- Safety management systems
- Emergency response capabilities
- Operational procedures
- Regulatory compliance
The regulator commended FAAN for its cooperation and consistency throughout the process, noting that collaboration between agencies played a key role in achieving certification.
Global Aviation Audits
The certification comes at a strategic time as Nigeria prepares for ongoing ICAO Continuous Monitoring Approach activities.
These international audits assess how effectively countries implement aviation safety standards and address previously identified gaps.
By certifying Akanu Ibiam International Airport Nigeria strengthens its position ahead of global validation exercises and improves its overall aviation safety rating.
Compliance
In her remarks Olubunmi Kuku represented by Adebola Agunbiade acknowledged the collective effort behind the achievement.
She credited the technical teams from both NCAA and FAAN along with other stakeholders for ensuring the successful completion of the certification process.
FAAN also reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining compliance with regulatory standards and improving operational efficiency across its network of airports.
Opening
For travellers the certification of Akanu Ibiam International Airport signals improved safety reliability and service quality.
Airports that meet international certification standards are better equipped to handle increased passenger traffic support international airlines and maintain consistent safety performance.
For the South East region of Nigeria the development could enhance connectivity boost regional travel and attract more investment into the aviation and tourism sectors.
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Airport certification is more than a regulatory requirement. It is a key indicator of a countrys readiness to compete in the global aviation market.
As Nigeria continues to upgrade infrastructure and strengthen oversight the focus remains clear improving safety building confidence and positioning the country as a leading aviation hub in Africa.
The certification of Akanu Ibiam International Airport is another signal that the sector is moving in that direction steadily and deliberately.
