Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority has issued aerodrome certificates to Malam Aminu Kano International Airport and Port Harcourt International Airport.
Gatekeepers News reports that this marks another step in aligning Nigeria’s aviation sector with global safety standards.
The certificates were presented in Abuja by the Director-General of the NCAA, Chris Najomo, who said the approval confirms that both airports meet required international benchmarks in operational procedures and safety management systems.
He explained that aerodrome certification improves safety oversight, boosts investor and airline confidence, and enhances the airports’ risk and insurance profiles.
Najomo said the certification supports the aviation sector reforms under the agenda of Minister of Aviation and the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritise infrastructure renewal, stronger institutions, and improved service delivery.
He added that with the latest approval, four of Nigeria’s five designated international airports are now fully certified, following earlier certification of the Lagos and Abuja airports.
According to NCAA, the process involved repeated inspections, issuance of corrective action notices, and the implementation of remedial measures by the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria to address identified gaps at both facilities.
Najomo said the authority will continue to enforce strict compliance with Nigerian aviation regulations and international standards to strengthen safety and competitiveness.
Receiving the certificates on behalf of FAAN, Managing Director Olubunmi Kuku said the approval followed a rigorous and transparent process.
She said, “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 added that FAAN teams in Kano and Port Harcourt demonstrated strong commitment throughout the process, describing the certification as a shared achievement focused on safety, public confidence, and national interest.
