The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) says it will sustain momentum after the country earned a record aviation safety score in its latest International Civil Aviation Organization audit.
FAAN Managing Director Olubunmi Kuku said the achievement reflects years of investment in compliance, modernization, and staff training. She pledged that the authority will continue reforms in airport operations, security, and infrastructure to ensure Nigeria maintains its standing.
The ICAO Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme recently rated Nigeria among the top performers in Africa, a milestone hailed by industry stakeholders as a turning point for the country’s aviation sector.
Kuku emphasized that the next phase will focus on consolidating gains, improving passenger experience, and ensuring safety standards remain consistent across all airports. “We are proud of this achievement, but our work is far from over. We must keep raising the bar,” she said.
Nigeria’s aviation industry has faced challenges in the past, including infrastructure gaps and regulatory concerns. Recent reforms, such as enhanced runway safety protocols, stricter licensing procedures, and improved emergency response systems have helped boost confidence.
Similar cases across Africa highlight the importance of sustained reforms. South Africa has maintained strong ICAO ratings after major investments in airport security and staff training. Kenya improved its safety score following reforms in air traffic control and pilot certification, while Ghana earned praise for upgrading facilities at Kotoka International Airport to meet global standards.
Industry experts say Nigeria’s record score could attract more international carriers and strengthen the country’s role as a hub for West African air travel.
