Nigeria’s National Security Adviser orders immediate implementation of consolidated airport security screening to combat inefficiencies and eliminate corruption in a country plagued by outdated aviation infrastructure.
At a Glance
- Nigeria has directed implementation of a one-stop joint security screening system across all airports to eliminate operational inefficiencies and touting
- Current security vulnerabilities stem from obsolete equipment, inadequate training, poor coordination between agencies, and insufficient infrastructure
- Experts recommend investing in modern security systems, comprehensive staff training, and establishing a National Aviation Security Coordination Framework
- All aviation security personnel must complete mandatory certification by October 2025 to ensure compliance with international standards
Nigeria Mandates Unified Airport Security Approach
Nigeria’s Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) has issued a directive for the implementation of a consolidated security screening procedure at all airports nationwide. The order aims to streamline passenger processing, eliminate touting, and address operational inefficiencies that have long plagued the country’s aviation sector. This mandate comes as part of broader efforts to modernize Nigeria’s aviation security infrastructure, which has fallen behind international standards due to years of neglect and underinvestment.
“As part of the efforts of the ONSA, 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,” said Ahmad Madawaki.
The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has identified critical vulnerabilities across the nation’s airports, including obsolete screening systems, inadequate perimeter fencing, poor surveillance capabilities, and limited access control systems. These deficiencies have created significant security gaps that could potentially be exploited by criminal elements or terrorist organizations seeking to target air transportation infrastructure or passengers.
Systemic Issues Plaguing Aviation Security
A comprehensive assessment of Nigeria’s aviation security apparatus has revealed multiple layers of deficiencies that extend beyond just equipment shortfalls. Security experts have highlighted poor coordination among the various agencies operating at airports as a major concern, with overlapping responsibilities and a lack of information sharing creating confusion and inefficiencies in threat response. This disjointed approach has undermined the effectiveness of existing security measures and created potential blind spots in the system.
“Several frontline officers are not conversant with evolving international security standards, while low morale continues to affect performance, vigilance, and professionalism. 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,” Farouk Umar Ahmed said.
Personnel issues further complicate the security landscape. Many frontline security officers lack adequate training on current international standards and best practices. Low morale stemming from poor compensation and limited career advancement opportunities has affected vigilance and professionalism among security staff. Additionally, political appointments have sometimes placed unqualified individuals in sensitive security positions without proper screening or certification, directly contradicting International Civil Aviation Organization requirements.
Roadmap for Modernization and Improvement
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has established October 1, 2025, as the deadline for all aviation security personnel to complete the Basic STP123 AVSEC course and undergo a formal certification process. This requirement aims to ensure all staff meet minimum competency standards and comply with national security programs. The initiative represents a fundamental shift toward professionalizing the aviation security workforce and aligning practices with global standards.
Stakeholders have recommended establishing a joint aviation security task force and implementing a National Aviation Security Coordination Framework to improve collaboration among agencies. These structural changes would be complemented by substantial investments in modern security infrastructure, including biometric systems, advanced threat detection tools, and integrated surveillance platforms. The integration of physical and cyber-security systems would enable real-time threat monitoring and response, addressing a current critical gap in capabilities.
The ONSA is currently developing a security track assessment framework to monitor and evaluate airport operations. This framework will establish clear metrics for measuring security effectiveness and enable more consistent enforcement of standards across all facilities. By treating aviation security as a shared national responsibility rather than a fragmented agency-specific concern, Nigerian authorities hope to create a more resilient and responsive system capable of addressing evolving threats to air travel.
