Elegbede Abiodun
… stating that it aligns with the stringent requirements of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued an Aerodrome Certification for the Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).
The certificate was formally handed over on Monday, April 14, 2026, at the NCAA headquarters in Abuja after the airport’s full compliance with both national and international aviation safety and operational standards.
NCAA’s Director of Aerodrome and Airspace Standards, Ahmad Abba who represented the Director-General of Civil Aviation, Chris Najomo, described the development as a major achievement, noting that it aligns with the stringent requirements of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Abba explained that the certification followed a rigorous five-phase evaluation process encompassing detailed inspections of airport infrastructure, airside and landside operations, safety management systems, emergency preparedness, and personnel training. He said that the exercise was rigourous and not a mere formality.
“The certification of Akanu Ibiam International Airport is a testament to the collaborative efforts between the regulator and the operator. It demonstrates that Nigeria is on track in meeting international aviation safety benchmarks,” he said.
He also commended FAAN for its professionalism and sustained cooperation throughout the certification process, describing such collaboration as essential to maintaining consistent safety standards across Nigeria’s airports.
Speaking on behalf of the Managing Director of FAAN, Olubunmi Kuku, the Director of Commercial and Business Development, Adebola Agunbiade, said the certification is a win for the country’s aviation sector and acknowledged the contributions of NCAA officials, FAAN technical teams, and other industry stakeholders whose expertise helped deliver a successful outcome. Kuku assured that FAAN would continue to uphold regulatory compliance while investing in infrastructure upgrades and improved service delivery across its network of airports.
“This certification is not the end but a new phase of continuous improvement. We are committed to sustaining global standards and enhancing passenger experience across all our airports,” she stated.
An Aerodrome Certificate is an official licence issued by the NCAA that confirms an airport meets all the required safety, operational, and infrastructure standards to legally receive aircraft and passengers. It is required under ICAO Annex 14, which sets the global standards for aerodrome design, operations, and safety management. Without it, an airport cannot be recognised as being compliant with international aviation law.
Enugu airport had been out of full international operational status for some time following its closure for rehabilitation but this certificate now formally restores its credibility in the eyes of international airlines and aviation bodies and positions it to attract new international routes.
