The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining high safety standards following a landmark improvement in Nigeria’s aviation performance.
This comes after the International Civil Aviation Organisation awarded Nigeria an Effective Implementation score of 91.45 percent in its 2026 Coordinated Validation Mission, a significant rise from about 70 percent recorded in 2023. The new rating places Nigeria well above the global average of 70.4 percent and marks one of the country’s strongest performances in aviation safety oversight.
According to FAAN, the achievement reflects years of coordinated reforms, infrastructure upgrades, and improved regulatory oversight across the aviation sector. The Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Henry Agbebire, credited the milestone to strong collaboration among stakeholders and policy direction from the Federal Government.
A major highlight of the progress is the sharp improvement in aerodrome and ground aids systems, which jumped significantly to over 95 percent. This transformation has led to the certification and recertification of all five international airports in Nigeria, including the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, marking the first time the country has achieved full certification across its international gateways.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, was commended for driving reforms, alongside the Director General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, Chris Najomo, whose leadership strengthened regulatory compliance.
Nigeria’s improved rating signals strong alignment with ICAO standards and enhances investor confidence in the sector.
FAAN emphasized that sustaining these gains remains a priority, as the country aims to not only maintain compliance but exceed global aviation safety expectations in the coming years.
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