Tinubu Lauds Nigeria’s impressive 91.45% ICAO Aviation Safety Rating
- Nigeria surpasses regional and global averages as ICAO audit boosts investor confidence in the aviation sector.
President Bola Tinubu has lauded Nigeria’s strong 91.45 per cent aviation safety rating from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), describing it as a major milestone for the country’s aviation industry and investment outlook.
The ICAO is a United Nations specialised agency responsible for coordinating global air navigation standards and ensuring safe and orderly development of international air transport.
Through its Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme (USOAP), ICAO evaluates countries on their ability to manage aviation safety risks and comply with international standards.
According to recent audit findings presented in Abuja at the headquarters of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Nigeria recorded an Effective Implementation score of 91.45 per cent — its highest ever.
The score places Nigeria significantly above both the West African regional average of 61.1 per cent and the global average of 70.4 per cent, signalling improved compliance with international aviation safety standards.
Since the introduction of the ICAO USOAP in 1999, Nigeria has undergone four safety audits, with performance measured through Effective Implementation ratings.
President Tinubu said the achievement reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening infrastructure and transportation as key drivers of economic growth.
He affirmed that the administration is working to position Nigeria’s aviation sector as a regional hub that meets global safety and operational standards.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has also been implementing a five-point agenda aimed at improving the aviation value chain.
A central pillar of that agenda is strict adherence to safety regulations and continuous improvement of Nigeria’s ICAO compliance rating.
Tinubu also commended the ministry for the improved score, saying it reinforces international confidence in Nigeria’s aviation industry and enhances the country’s attractiveness for investment in airline operations, infrastructure, and maintenance facilities.
He encouraged the aviation authorities not to relent, directing them to implement all recommendations issued by ICAO auditors fully.
The President underscored that sustaining and improving the rating will require continuous reforms, compliance monitoring, and investment in safety-critical systems.
Industry observers opined that the improved rating could strengthen Nigeria’s position in global aviation markets and boost confidence among international carriers and investors.