ICAO Validation: Kuku raises concerns over airport infrastructure

Ahead of the April 2026 ICAO Coordinated Validation Mission (ICVM) to Nigeria, the Managing Director/CE, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, raised critical concerns over airport infrastructure including runway design and engineering limitations, the need to close one of two taxiways, and required patchwork repairs that could present safety risks.

FAAN MD stated during a coordination meeting by the Director General of Civil Aviation, Captain Chris Najomo with FAAN and other aviation sector stakeholders at the headquarters of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) in Abuja yesterday.

Kuku, however, assured stakeholders that FAAN staff remain fully operational for certification preparations.

Earlier, Captain Najomo acknowledged progress in implementing Corrective Action Plans following the 2023 ICAO audit, emphasizing that improving Nigeria’s ICAO rating remains a Federal Government priority.

He stressed the need to close outstanding gaps in aerodrome certification, surveillance, and operational oversight.

Those in attendance from FAAN also included Capt. Abdulaziz Mahmoud, Mba Ifeoma, FAAN Certification Secretary Kate Idam, and other FAAN management staff.

With preliminary ICAO engagements expected this month and on-site validation in April, authorities expressed confidence that sustained collaboration will yield a successful outcome for Nigeria’s aviation safety oversight system.