Yemisi Izuora
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has assured auditors from the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) of the agency’s cooperation to ensure positive outcome of its audit.
CAPT. Muhtar Usman, Director General (D-G) of the agency while addressing the auditors in Lagos today noted that the most important legislative function performed by ICAO is the formulation and adoption of Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) for international civil aviation.
According to Usman, these are incorporated into the 19 technical annexes to the convention, otherwise known as the Chicago Convention.
He said that of critical importance is the future of civil aviation to Nigeria and the international community at large, adding that ICAO’s mandate aims at providing measures to prevent and suppress all acts of unlawful interference against civil aviation throughout the world.
Giving further insight to its functions, the D-G explained that Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) for international aviation security were first adopted by the ICAO Council in March, 1974, and were designated as Annex 17.
“It is instructive to note that Annex 17 has been adopted in six languages – Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian and Spanish.
Recently, ICAO Council has approved for all subsequent audits under the USAP – CMA programme, the adoption of Continuous Monitoring approach (CMA)” he said.
According to Usman, the objective of the USAP – CMA is to promote global aviation security through continuous auditing and monitoring of member – states’ aviation security performance.
This is to enhance states’ security compliance and oversight capabilities by determining the extent of compliance of the state in implementing Annex 17 standards and related provisions of Annex 9.
He said that during the audit, ICAO will observe and assess Nigeria’s adherence to associated security procedures, guidance materials and security related practices.
“Furthermore, ICAO will similarly determine the sustainability and effectiveness of the states’ implementation of a security system through the establishment of legislation, programmes, regulations and a security authority with control and enforcement capacity” he noted.
The D-G further pointed out that at the conclusion of the audit, recommendations and time windows will be provided for the closure of the open items and ensure compliance, and expressed confidence that Nigeria will meet all requirements of the body.
“You will recall that in 2008, Nigeria went through a similar audit and performed impressively.
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has ensured that corrective actions have been taken on all open items through a developed and submitted plan.
It is also interesting to note that Nigeria has five (5) ICAO trained auditors who are on the staff list of the NCAA. These people undoubtedly have continuously deployed their wealth of experience and exposure to provide a robust security regime for our airports.
The Authority has ensured the Aviation Security department is replete with well trained staff who have acquitted themselves very well in their oversight responsibilities” he added.