The Office of the National Security Adviser has directed the implementation of a one-stop joint-interest screening system across Nigerian airports.
This directive came as part of efforts to calm the rising call for the elimination of operational clumsiness, curb touting, and streamline security engagement with passengers in the aviation industry.
The NSA, Nuhu Ribadu, said this through his representative, Air Commodore Ahmad Madawaki, at an aviation security symposium themed: ‘The Fundamentality of Security in Achieving the Safe Skies Goals,’ held in Lagos on Tuesday.
Madawaki, who stated that aviation security must evolve to meet emerging threats, also emphasised the need for a coordinated national approach.
Madawaki, a member of the National Counter Terrorism Centre, said, “As part of the efforts of the Office of the National Security Adviser, the NSA has directed the implementation of the one-stop joint-interest screening system to avoid clumsiness and touting in innovation operations at our airports.”
He said the NSA’s office is also developing a security track assessment framework to monitor and evaluate all airports and airspace operations in Nigeria.
According to him, this initiative involves a multi-stakeholder setup, drawing expertise from various sectors to assess risks and ensure safety in nationwide aviation.
”The framework will guide assessments and help ensure that operators across the industry are security-conscious. Stakeholders must share timely information to safeguard both our airports and the airspace,” Madawaki stressed.
He reiterated that security, especially in the aviation sector, is a shared responsibility, urging all players in the aviation ecosystem to align with global standards of vigilance, safety, and operational excellence.
He said, “The beauty of ensuring safer skies lies in our collective action. The challenges of insecurity are no longer isolated to any region. We must treat our airspace as a critical national asset and protect it accordingly.
“This symposium is a timely reminder that aviation security must be treated with the seriousness it deserves. It’s not just about protecting air routes but also our national integrity.”
Also, the Director-General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, Chris Najomo, directed that henceforth, all aviation security personnel in the country must undergo the basic three steps of the aviation security courses to ensure safer skies in the country.
This was contained in an all Operators’ Letter (DGCA/AVSEC/AOL/25/003) CIRCULAR REF: NCAA/DAVSEC/HQ/OD/6/1/33, dated March 25, 2025, but obtained by our correspondent on Tuesday.
This move aims to enhance the knowledge, skills, and competencies of security personnel in implementing effective aviation security preventive measures.
Furthermore, all aviation security screeners responsible for screening persons, baggage, vehicles, and other items must undergo a certification process.
This directive applies to all aerodrome operators, aircraft operators, air traffic service providers, cargo and mail providers, ground handling providers, catering providers, aviation security service providers, and other aviation allied service providers.
The circular reads partly, “This directive shall apply to all Aerodrome Operators and Aircraft Operators, Air Traffic Service Providers, Cargo and Mail Providers, Ground Handling Providers. Catering Providers. Aviation Security Service Providers and other Aviation Allied Service Providers, to be in full compliance.”