The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has reached a significant milestone in enhancing aviation safety by completing the draft of its State Safety Programme (SSP), designed to align with the stringent requirements of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

The SSP is an integrated set of regulations and activities aimed at improving safety across Nigeria’s aviation sector. This initiative marks a critical step towards full-scale implementation, demonstrating Nigeria’s commitment to adhering to ICAO Annex 19, which provides a comprehensive framework for managing aviation safety in line with international best practices.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Michael Achimugu, NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, highlighted the importance of this development under the leadership of Acting Director General, Captain Chris Najomo. “The completion of the SSP draft signifies a significant advancement in Nigeria’s aviation safety efforts,” Achimugu stated. “It underscores our dedication to implementing internationally recognized safety standards.”

To ensure the success and relevance of the SSP, the NCAA is inviting stakeholders from across the aviation industry to contribute to the refinement of the document. The agency emphasized that stakeholder input is crucial for enhancing the programme’s effectiveness, ensuring it meets the needs of the industry, and securing the long-term safety and security of the nation’s aviation operations.

“The Acting Director General of the NCAA, Captain Chris Najomo, urges all stakeholders to participate in refining the SSP document,” the statement continued. “Your valuable contributions will play a vital role in ensuring that the programme is both comprehensive and effective.”

The draft SSP is accessible on the NCAA’s official website at https://ncaa.gov.ng/, and stakeholders are encouraged to submit their feedback and suggestions via the provided email addresses by Monday, September 30, 2024. This collaborative approach aims to ensure that the SSP not only meets international standards but also addresses the unique challenges of Nigeria’s aviation sector.