To strengthen security and foster collaboration in the aviation sector, the Director General of Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) Chris Najomo ,has ordered that from October 1, 2025, all aviation security personnel in Nigeria undergo the basic 123 Aviation Security (AVSEC) course as a baseline training and certification for all aviation security screeners and develop and implement measures to protect the critical information and communications technology systems and data from unlawful interference.
The DGCA gave the order during the aviation security stakeholder symposium held on 29th April, 2025 in Lagos which was themed ” The Fundamentality of Security in Achieving the Safe Skies Goal”.
He stated that the provisions of Standard 3.4.1 of ICAO Annex 17 have been included in the National Civil Aviation Security Training Programme (NCASTP) and the objective is to ensure that aviation security personnel involved in implementing various aspect of the NCASP are adequately equipped with necessary knowledge, skills and competencies so as to be able to effectively implement aviation security preventive measures in accordance with appropriate National and Airport Security Programmes as prescribed in the civil aviation security standards and recommended practices.
Najomo added that this directive shall apply to all Aerodrome Operators Aircraft Operators, Air Traffic Service Provider, Cargo and Mail Providers, Ground Handling Providers, Catering Providers, Aviation Security Service Providers and other Aviation Allied Service Providers.
“All stakeholders under the NCASP are required to implement the Basic STP 123 course as a baseline training for all security personnel before deployment for aviation security duties.Section 3 of the National Civil Aviation Security Certification Programme (NCASCP), stipulates that all aviation security persons assigned responsibilities for the screening of person, baggage vehicle and other items are required to undergo certification processes.
“In accordance with the provisions of Part 17.59 of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulation and Section 6.12 of the NCASP, all entities involved with, or responsible for the implementation of various aspects of the NCASP are required to identify their critical information and communications technology systems and data used for civil aviation purposes.
“The measures shall include, inter alia, security by design. supply chain security. network separation, and the protection and/or limitation of any remote access capabilities, as appropriate and in accordance with the risk assessment carried out by its relevant national authorities. The Authority has published guidelines for the aviation cybersecurity as prescribed in Appendix Y to the NCASP of 2024, which provides guidance on implementation of the aviation cyber security. ” he said
While delivering her goodwill message, Olubunmi Kuku, the Managing Director/Chief Executive of the Federal Airports Authority (FAAN) emphasised that commitment to reinforcing aviation security must be steadfast and adaptive in an era marked by evolving threats and rapid technological advancements.
“Our commitment to this critical aspect of aviation will undoubtedly contribute to the safety and security of passengers, crew members, and the general public.”, she said.
