Aviation security is the cornerstone of a safe, resilient, and trusted air transport system.

The Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency,Engr.Umar Farouk Ahmed stated this in his goodwill message at the High Level Aviation Security Symposium organized by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority with the theme:Fundamentality of Aviation Security in achieving Safer Skies Goal.

He ephasised “Safe Skies” goal is not merely aspirational, it is a regulatory operational and strategic importance.

“As the provider of Air Navigation Services across the Nigerian airspace, the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) recognizes that security failures not only threaten national sovereignty but can severely disrupt flight operations, air traffic management, and public confidence in the aviation sector.”

This symposium,according to Farouk, presents a timely opportunity for aviation security stakeholders to share perspectives, strengthen cooperation, and collectively chart a proactive course towards addressing emerging threats.

He  highlights  major challenges that continue to inhibit the effectiveness of aviation security in Nigeria.

These include Lack of Synergy and Collaboration Among Security Agencies Despite the shared responsibility for securing aviation infrastructure, coordination among security agencies remains weak.

The absence of structured inter-agency communication channels, overlapping mandates, and fragmented incident response mechanisms continue to compromise the effectiveness of security operations at airports.

This lack of synergy delays critical decision-making and hinders unified responses to security threats.

Inadequate Investment in Security Infrastructure and Equipment Many airports and airspace facilities are yet to benefit from modern security technologies.

Obsolete screening systems, inadequate perimeter fencing, poor surveillance coverage. and limited access control systems expose key installations to avoidable threats.

The integration of physical and cyber-security systems remains suboptimal, limiting the ability to detect, deter, and respond to security breaches in real time.

Capacity Gaps and Poor Motivation Among Aviation Security Personnel. The critical role of aviation security personnel is undermined by insufficient training, poor remuneration, and limited opportunities for career development.

Several frontline officers are not conversant with evolving international security standards, while low morale continues to affect performance, vigilance, and professionalism.

Recruitment of Unqualified Personnel into Sensitive Security Roles. A growing concern is the deployment of inadequately qualified individuals into sensitive aviation security positions.

These appointments often bypass necessary screening certification, and background verification processes required by ICAO Annex 17 and national civil aviation regulations.

The result is a vulnerability in the leadership and execution of security protocols at airports and related facilities.

To address the aforementioned challenges and strengthen aviation security in line with international best practices, he proposed these  recommendations:

Institutionalize a Joint Aviation Security Task Force NAMA recommends the creation of a National Aviation Security Coordination Framework, anchored byFederal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and regularly inspected or audited byNigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), to drive seamless collaboration among all security stakeholders.

2 This task force should convene regularly to share intelligence, develop joint action plans, conduct simulations, and issue coordinated advisories .

Prioritize Investment in Security Infrastructure Federal and state authorities, in partnership with the private sector, must invest in modern aviation security equipment.

This includes biometric access systems, smart surveillance solutions, integrated command centres, and advanced threat detection tools.

Funding mechanisms should be developed to ensure sustained upgrades and maintenance.      Adopt a Comprehensive Capacity-Building and Incentive Programme Security personnel should undergo recurrent training accredited by ICAO and relevant bodies.

Training must cover not only physical security but also cyber security, behavioural detection, and emergency response.

Additionally, structured motivation frameworks- including health benefits, hazard allowances, and career progression plans-should be introduced to retain top talent.

iv. Enforce Merit-Based Recruitment and Certification Standards All recruitment into aviation security roles must strictly comply with prescribed certification, background verification, and competency criteria.

A centralized vetting system should be established by NCAA in conjunction with the recruiting agency to verify qualifications and monitor compliance across all agencies and operators.

To truly achieve the “Safe Skies” objective, aviation security must transition from a reactive to a proactive paradigm-grounded in collaboration, competence, and continuous investment.

NAMA stands ready to work with all stakeholders to protect our skies, people, and infrastructure. We commend the NCAA for convening this high-level forum and reaffirm our full support towards a secure and integrated national aviation security strategy.