Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA has fully recertified the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, MMIA Lagos and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, NAIA Abuja after a long process.
Speaking during the recertification today in Abuja, the Director General of NCAA, Captain Chris Najomo, stated that the recertification is not just remarkable; but is a vital step in enhancing the nation’s aviation infrastructure, which has long been overdue.
Najomo said the accomplishment is a clear indication of its commitment to providing a safe and efficient air travel experience for all.
The DG noted that the nation’s Aerodrome certificates have not been active since 2020.
Najomo stated further that achieving this recertification is not just remarkable; it is a vital step in enhancing the country’s aviation infrastructure, which has long been overdue.
This accomplishment is a clear indication of our commitment to providing a safe and efficient air travel experience for all, the DG said.
According to him, “the recertification process is not merely a formality; it is anchored in the principles established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). As you may be aware, the ICAO Annexes, particularly Annex 14, which pertains to Aerodromes, provide the framework for ensuring that our airports are safe, efficient, and capable of meeting the demands of modern aviation. This process involves rigorous assessments of our facilities, including runway conditions and airfield lighting systems, to ensure compliance with these global standards”.
The NCAA boss highlighted the ongoing assessments and improvements regarding the two primary runways in Lagos 18R.
He noted that the runways are crucial for “our operations, and their conditions directly influence the efficiency and safety of air traffic. We are also focusing our attention on the taxiways A, B, and C, which are vital connectors that facilitate the smooth movement of aircraft on the ground. In Abuja, the primary runway also requires our continued commitment to ensure it continues to meets ICAO standards. Our goal is to enhance these facilities further to provide a seamless travel experience for all passengers”.
Najomo While commending strides in its recertification efforts, emphasised that there is still work to be done, specifically, some of the runways and airfield lighting systems require further attention to meet the ICAO standards fully.
He pointed out that it is crucial that the authorities continue to prioritize these improvements to enhance the safety and efficiency of its operations.
As they are committed to addressing these challenges head-on, and I assure you that we will allocate the necessary resources to expedite these improvements, Najomo said.
The DG emphasised the need to maintain the momentum built through collaboration and shared goals, stressing that with the collective expertise and determination of their teams, they will navigate them successfully.
Najomo expressed gratitude to everyone who has contributed to the recertification process specifically the airport managers and their teams in Lagos and Abuja, the Director Airport Operations and Director Engineering and the NCAA teams.
