ICAO commences security audit of Nigerian civil aviation

The International Civil Aviation Organisation, ICAO, has commenced its ICAO Universal Security Audit Programme of Nigerian civil aviation .

Briefing aviation reporters at a joint news conference with the ICAO Official at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos,  the Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority ,NCAA, Capt. Muhtar Usman  said the objective of the USAP – CMA programme is to promote global aviation security through continuous auditing and monitoring of member – states’ aviation security performance.



According to Usman, while in Nigeria, the team of Auditors from ICAO comprising of Messrs Karen Zadoyan, Steven Neu, Nuno Miguel Silva Ferreira Fortes and Wendy Mueller would observe and assess Nigeria’s adherence to “associated security procedures in addition to the guidance materials and security related practices.”

He added that the move would enhance states’ security compliance and oversight capabilities by determining the extent of compliance of the state in implementing Annex 17 standards and related provisions of Annex 9.

“Furthermore, ICAO will similarly determine the sustainability and effectiveness of the states’ implementation of a security system through the establishment of legislation, programmes, regulations and a security authority with control and enforcement capacity” Captain Usman said.

The NCAA DG also pointed out that at the end of the audit, recommendations and time windows would be provided for the “closure of the open items” and ensure   compliance stressing that Nigeria was fully prepared to succeed in the audit as she did in 2008 when the country performed impressively.

“The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has ensured that corrective actions have been taken on all open items through a developed and submitted plan. It is also interesting to note that Nigeria has five (5) ICAO trained auditors who are on the staff list of the NCAA. These people undoubtedly have continuously deployed their wealth of experience and exposure to provide a robust security regime for our airports.” he said.

Captain Usman   also said that the Authority would ensured that the Aviation Security department was staffed with well trained personnel who have acquitted themselves very well in their oversight responsibilities.

“It is pertinent to acquaint you that safety and security of our air transport operations receives a high priority and very significant attention from the regulatory Authority. This is why I promptly and strictly adhered to the ICAO recommendation that all Aviation Security departments in Civil Aviation Authorities report directly to the Director General. In doing this, we have eliminated all forms of bureaucracy and bottlenecks to allow security issues receive expedited attention.” he stressed.

He further stressed that the authority would give the team of auditors all the needed cooperation it deserve to ensure a successful audit in Nigeria.
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