The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has bolstered aviation security by training its aviation security staff and representatives from key security agencies on handling Man-Portable Air-Defence Systems (MANPADS). This two-week training, conducted at the NCAA headquarters in Abuja, aimed to address the rising threat posed by lightweight anti-aircraft weapons to both military and civilian aviation.
The course, titled Reducing Vulnerabilities to MANPADS and Stand-off Weapons, was facilitated by the French Civil Aviation Authority. During the closing ceremony, Acting Director-General of the NCAA, Capt. Chris Najomo, emphasized that the training has equipped participants with critical skills to mitigate the risks associated with MANPADS. He stressed that proactive measures are crucial for safeguarding not only Nigeria’s economy but also global aviation stability.
Najomo noted that the inclusion of diverse organizations in the training was a strategic choice to promote interagency cooperation. “We must work together to ensure a secure aviation sector,” he stated.
Dr. Omogo Bernard Onwe Chinedu, Director of Aviation Security at the NCAA, commended Najomo’s commitment to closing security gaps and enhancing safety protocols. The training initiative aligns with the NCAA’s broader efforts to build staff competencies and improve aviation safety across Nigeria.
