The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority has granted full aerodrome certification to Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu.
The approval, issued in Abuja on Monday, confirms the airport now meets global aviation safety and operational standards required for international flights.
An aerodrome certificate serves as an official licence under ICAO Annex 14, validating that an airport complies with design, safety, and operational rules.
“The certification of Akanu Ibiam International Airport is a testament to collaboration,” said Director-General Chris Najomo.
The certification followed a detailed five-phase process covering infrastructure, safety systems, emergency readiness, and personnel training.
“It demonstrates that Nigeria is on track in meeting international aviation safety benchmarks,” Najomo added.
Rigorous Audit Confirms Global Safety Standards
The process involved inspections of both airside and landside operations, ensuring compliance with global aviation requirements.
Meanwhile, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria played a central role in meeting these conditions.
“This certification is a win for Nigeria’s aviation sector,” said FAAN Managing Director Olubunmi Kuku.
Kuku, represented by Adebola Agunbiade, credited technical teams and regulators for delivering the milestone.
“It reflects the dedication of our teams and industry partners,” she said.
The certification now positions the airport to receive international carriers under recognised global standards.
According to details reported by International Civil Aviation Organization, such approval is mandatory for global aviation compliance.
Enugu Targets Aviation Hub Status After Approval
Enugu State officials see the development as a key step toward economic expansion and aviation growth.
“This will boost credibility with international airlines,” said Transport Commissioner Obi Ozor.
He linked the milestone to Governor Peter Mbah’s plan to grow the state economy from $4.4 billion to $30 billion.
“It positions Enugu as a major aviation hub,” Ozor added.
The airport, established over 50 years ago, has undergone recent upgrades including CCTV systems and enhanced perimeter security.
Furthermore, new firefighting equipment and improved signage contributed to meeting certification standards.
“This certification is not an end, but a new phase,” Kuku said.
She added that FAAN will maintain compliance while improving passenger experience across Nigerian airports.
The approval also supports a concession plan aimed at increasing traffic and handling wide-body aircraft like the Boeing 747.
Operators project up to 10 international flights in the near future as capacity expands.
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