Enugu's Akanu Ibiam Airport Secures Historic International Certification
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has officially granted an Aerodrome Certification to the Akanu Ibiam International Airport (AIIA) in Enugu, marking a significant first in its history. This certification, presented to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), serves as a formal license confirming that the airport meets all required safety, operational, and infrastructure standards under international aviation law.
Certification Process and Significance
The certificate was handed over on Monday at the NCAA headquarters in Abuja, following the airport's full adherence to both national and international aviation safety and operational benchmarks. Director-General of NCAA, Chris Najomo, hailed this development as a major achievement, emphasizing its alignment with the stringent requirements set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
Najomo, represented by the agency's Director of Aerodrome and Airspace Standards, Ahmad Abba, detailed that the certification resulted from a rigorous five-phase evaluation process. This included comprehensive inspections of airport infrastructure, airside and landside operations, safety management systems, emergency preparedness, and personnel training.
"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 stated.
Collaborative Efforts and Future Commitments
Najomo also praised FAAN for its professionalism and sustained cooperation throughout the certification journey, noting that such collaboration is essential for maintaining consistent safety standards across Nigeria's airports. In response, Managing Director of FAAN, Olubunmi Kuku, represented by the Director of Commercial and Business Development, Adebola Agunbiade, described the certification as a victory for the country's aviation sector.
Kuku acknowledged the contributions of NCAA officials, FAAN technical teams, and other industry stakeholders, whose expertise were pivotal in achieving this outcome. She 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 an end, but a new phase of continuous improvement. We are committed to sustaining global standards and enhancing passenger experience across all our airports," she affirmed.
Economic and Regional Implications
Commissioner for Transport in Enugu State, Obi Ozor, reacted positively, describing the certification as a boost for the Dr. Peter Mbah administration's vision to grow the state's economy from $4.4 billion to $30 billion. He highlighted the goal of making Enugu a major aviation hub, commending NCAA for its professionalism and stringent certification process.
Ozor noted that this development would enhance the airport's credibility in the eyes of international airlines and aviation bodies, positioning it to attract new international routes. The certification is viewed as a new dawn for AIIA, which was founded fifty years ago and has seen continued improvements, including recent upgrades from a concession arrangement.
Infrastructure Upgrades and Future Prospects
Over the past few weeks, the airport has undergone significant infrastructure enhancements, such as new CCTV installations, complete security perimeter fencing, updated signs and signages, and additional firefighting vehicles. These improvements have directly contributed to securing the certification.
This milestone prepares the airport for extensive commercial expansion by the concessionaire, who envisions handling close to 10 international flights in the near future. With the certification, wide-body aircraft like the Boeing 747 can now land at the airport, further solidifying its role as a key player in Nigeria's aviation landscape.
