President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has applauded Nigeria’s aviation sector following the release of a 91.45% safety compliance score by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), describing it as a major milestone for the country’s air transport system and international credibility.
The ICAO, a specialised agency of the United Nations, is responsible for setting global aviation standards and ensuring safe, secure, and orderly development of international air travel. Its Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme (USOAP) evaluates member states on their ability to effectively implement aviation safety regulations and manage associated risks.
Nigeria, as an ICAO member state, is required to adhere strictly to global aviation safety standards. Since the USOAP began in 1999, the country has undergone four comprehensive audits, with performance measured through the Effective Implementation (EI) score.
In the most recent audit briefing held at the headquarters of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) in Abuja, ICAO auditors confirmed that Nigeria achieved an Effective Implementation score of 91.45%. This represents the highest safety rating the country has ever recorded.
The new score places Nigeria significantly above both regional and global benchmarks, with West Africa averaging 61.1% and the global average standing at 70.4%. This improvement is expected to further strengthen investor confidence and enhance Nigeria’s standing in international aviation.
President Tinubu noted that since assuming office, his administration has prioritised infrastructure and transportation as key drivers of economic growth. He emphasised plans to position the aviation sector as a strategic hub for economic development by ensuring safety, efficiency, and compliance with global best practices.
In line with this vision, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), introduced a five-point agenda aimed at strengthening the aviation value chain. A central focus of the agenda is strict adherence to safety regulations and continuous improvement of Nigeria’s ICAO performance rating.
The President praised the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development for the achievement, stating that the improved rating reflects Nigeria’s commitment to global safety standards. He added that it will also boost the country’s attractiveness for aviation investments, aircraft maintenance operations, and airline expansion.
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President Tinubu further directed the ministry and relevant agencies to carefully implement all recommendations issued by ICAO auditors, stressing the need for continuous improvement to maintain and surpass the current rating.
Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information and Strategy)
April 23, 2026
