The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority has granted an Aerodrome Certification to the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, marking a historic milestone as the facility earns its first-ever international certification.
The certificate was presented to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria on Monday at the NCAA headquarters in Abuja after the airport met all national and global aviation safety and operational standards.
Director-General of NCAA, Chris Najomo, described the development as a major achievement aligned with the strict requirements of the International Civil Aviation Organization.
Represented by the Director of Aerodrome and Airspace Standards, Ahmad Abba, Najomo said the certification followed a rigorous five-phase evaluation process.
“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 noted that the process involved comprehensive inspections of infrastructure, airside and landside operations, safety management systems, emergency preparedness, and personnel training.
Najomo also commended FAAN for its professionalism and cooperation, describing such collaboration as critical to maintaining consistent safety standards across Nigerian airports.
Speaking on behalf of FAAN’s Managing Director, Olubunmi Kuku, the Director of Commercial and Business Development, Adebola Agunbiade, said the certification represents a major win for Nigeria’s aviation sector.
“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 stated.
Reacting, Enugu State Commissioner for Transport, Obi Ozor, described the milestone as a significant boost to the development vision of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah.
He said the certification would strengthen the airport’s credibility among international airlines and aviation bodies, while positioning it to attract more global routes.
According to Ozor, the development aligns with the administration’s broader ambition to grow the state’s economy and transform Enugu into a major aviation hub.
The Aerodrome Certificate confirms that the airport meets the standards required under ICAO regulations for safety, operations, and infrastructure, making it fully compliant with international aviation laws.
The certification follows recent upgrades at the airport, including enhanced security systems, new CCTV installations, perimeter fencing, improved signage, and additional firefighting equipment.
Industry stakeholders say the milestone paves the way for expanded commercial operations, with plans to accommodate increased international traffic and larger aircraft such as the Boeing 747 in the near future.
