• ICAO audit cites reforms after 2023 below-standard rating
• New 20-year aviation master plan targets infrastructure, regulation improvements

Nigeria’s aviation safety performance has improved significantly in recent years. Following a Coordinated Validation Mission (ICVM) conducted by the International Civil Aviation Organization between April 15 and 22, 2026, the country scored 91.45% in Effective Implementation (EI), up from 70.12% in the previous audit in 2023.

The evaluation measures States’ capacity to oversee aviation safety, particularly in aircraft operations, regulation and passenger protection. According to Nigerian authorities, it also helps identify structural weaknesses and risks that could affect the national system.

The 2023 audit recorded a score considered below international standards. Director General of Civil Aviation Chris Ona Najomo attributed the improvement to reforms implemented since then, including root-cause analysis and corrective action plans. Authorities noted, however, that the results remain subject to change, as ICVM findings require further validation by ICAO’s technical bodies.

Beyond technical performance, the audit is a key indicator of the attractiveness of Nigeria’s aviation sector, particularly in terms of investor confidence and compliance with international standards. It is also part of the country’s broader air transport development strategy.

With ICAO support, Nigeria recently developed a master plan to guide the sector’s development over the next 20 years. Unveiled last week, the document outlines priority initiatives in infrastructure planning, regulatory and policy frameworks, operational performance and institutional capacity building.

It covers several key technical areas, including air navigation services, aerodrome development, air transport economics, safety oversight, as well as security and facilitation.

Henoc Dossa