A team of experts from the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), has commenced security audits at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
These audits, part of the 2024 ICAO Universal Security Audit Programme through Continuous Monitoring Approach (USAP CMA), aim to assess critical aviation security areas including Inflight Security, Passenger and Baggage Security, Acts of Unlawful Interference, Facilitation, Legislation, Training, Quality Control Function, Operations, and Cargo, Mail, and Catering.
The team, consisting of Callum Vine as team lead, alongside James Mabala, Tebogo Mphela, and Alagie Jeng, will conduct the nearly two-week exercise, scheduled to conclude on March 22, 2024.
This initiative, as announced by Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs & Consumer Protection, underscores Nigeria’s commitment to upholding the highest security standards in its aviation industry.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, emphasised the significance of the audit in maintaining stringent security measures. He stated that through rigorous assessments and collaborative efforts, Nigeria aims to bolster its defenses against evolving threats and vulnerabilities.
Acting Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, Chris Najomo, welcomed the ICAO auditors and outlined the objectives of the USAP CMA. This includes improving global aviation security by continuously monitoring member states’ AVSEC (Aviation Security) performance and assessing the effective implementation of critical elements of their AVSEC oversight systems.
Najomo expressed confidence in Nigeria’s enhanced security measures since the previous audit and assured the ICAO auditors of maximum cooperation for a smooth exercise.
He anticipates that Nigeria will surpass its previous rating, attributing this optimism to progressive transformations within the industry and the current administration’s commitment to ensuring secure, safe, and efficient air transportation.
