In a landmark development for Nigeria’s aviation sector, the Akanu Ibiam International Airport has officially earned its first-ever international aerodrome certification, marking a transformative leap into global aviation standards.

The certification, issued by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, was presented at the regulator’s headquarters in Abuja after the airport successfully met stringent national and international safety and operational requirements.

Director-General of NCAA, Chris Najomo, described the milestone as a significant breakthrough, emphasizing that the certification aligns with the rigorous benchmarks set by the International Civil Aviation Organization. Represented by the Director of Aerodrome and Airspace Standards, Ahmad Abba, Najomo revealed that the approval followed a comprehensive five-phase evaluation process covering infrastructure integrity, operational efficiency, safety systems, emergency readiness, and personnel competence.

“This achievement underscores Nigeria’s steady progress toward global aviation excellence,” he stated, while applauding FAAN for its professionalism and sustained collaboration throughout the process.

Speaking for FAAN’s Managing Director, Olubunmi Kuku, the Director of Commercial and Business Development, Adebola Agunbiade, described the certification as a collective victory for the aviation ecosystem. She reaffirmed the authority’s commitment to continuous improvement, enhanced passenger experience, and sustained compliance with global standards.

Reacting to the development, Enugu State Commissioner for Transport, Obi Ozor, hailed the certification as a major boost to Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah’s ambitious economic blueprint to expand the state’s economy and position Enugu as a leading aviation hub in Nigeria.

According to Ozor, the certification significantly elevates the airport’s global credibility, opening doors for increased international airline operations and new route opportunities.

An aerodrome certificate, as mandated under ICAO Annex 14, serves as a critical global endorsement confirming that an airport meets all safety, infrastructure, and operational standards required for international aviation compliance.

For the Akanu Ibiam International Airport—established over five decades ago—this milestone signals the dawn of a new era. Recent infrastructural upgrades, including advanced CCTV systems, reinforced perimeter security, modern signage, and upgraded firefighting capabilities, have played a pivotal role in achieving this feat.

With the certification now secured, the airport is poised for rapid commercial expansion. Industry projections indicate readiness to handle multiple international flights in the near term, with capacity to accommodate wide-body aircraft such as the Boeing 747.

This historic certification not only redefines Enugu’s aviation landscape but also reinforces Nigeria’s growing reputation in global air transport safety and operational excellence.