A team of International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) auditors, yesterday, arrived in Nigeria to commence the 2024 ICAO Universal Security Audit Programme (USAP) through Continuous Monitoring Approach (CMA) for Lagos and Abuja airports.
The USAP CMA, which will run till March 22, 2024, will cover Inflight Security (IFS), Passenger and Baggage Security (PAX), Acts of Unlawful Interference (AUI), Facilitation (FAL), Legislation (LEG), Training (TRG), Quality Control Function (QCF), Operations (OPS) and Cargo, Mail and Catering (CGO).
Members of the four-man team are Callum Vine, James Mabala, Tebogo Mphela and Alagie Jeng. In his remarks, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, welcomed the auditors to Nigeria for the all-important mission.
According to the minister, the USAP represents a concerted effort to uphold the highest standards of security across all facets of Nigeria’s aviation industry.
He said that through rigorous assessments, comprehensive evaluations, and collaborative partnerships, Nigeria would fortify her defences against evolving threats and vulnerabilities.
Keyamo, who was represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr Emmanuel Meribole, commended the dedication and diligence of all stakeholders.
He also lauded regulatory bodies, security agencies, service providers and aviation security personnel whose unwavering commitment ensures the success of Nigeria’s aviation security endeavours, expressed hope that there won’t be any significant security concern.
Also, Acting Director-General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Chris Ona Najomo, welcomed the ICAO auditors to the 2024 USAP CMA audit, stating that the objectives of the ICAO USAP CMA is to improve global aviation security through auditing and the continuous monitoring of member-states.
Najomo said that as part of the on-site auditing process, Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA) in Abuja had been selected as airports where verification of the implementation of security measures would be carried out.
He, however, expressed optimism that Nigeria would surpass last rating with the progressive transformations that had taken place in the industry since the last exercise and considering the level of commitment of the current administration to ensure secure, safe and efficient air transportation in Nigeria.
