Aviation Security Gaps Could Expose Nigeria to Global Sanctions – Ojikutu

A respected aviation security expert has warned that persistent security weaknesses in Nigeria’s aviation system could leave the country vulnerable to international sanctions and safety downgrades unless urgent reforms are implemented. Former Commandant of Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Group Captain John Ojikutu (rtd), delivered the stern assessment in an exclusive interview, highlighting systemic lapses that he says undermine both safety and global confidence.

Ojikutu said that many issues stem from a misunderstanding of the link between security and safety, noting that without robust security architecture, true aviation safety cannot be achieved. He singled out MMIA Lagos as particularly exposed due to its location within a densely built-up urban environment and the absence of a proper security perimeter conditions that fall short of ICAO Annex 17 requirements on unlawful interference and threat mitigation.

According to Ojikutu, ICAO has formally queried Nigeria over its threat and risk assessments, suggesting that international auditors identified gaps during the Universal Security Audit Programme (USAP). He warned that such findings , if not addressed could jeopardize Nigeria’s bid to regain Category One status under the U.S. FAA’s International Aviation Safety Assessment (IASA), a designation that affects international flight operations.

By Oshuniran Sheriff Ola