Aviation

Stakeholders examine dynamics of Multi-Layered Airports Security System

Published

2 years ago

August 26, 2022

NewsDirect

Chief Executive Ofiicer, Centurion Aviation Security Safety Consults and Secretary General of the Aviation Safety Round Table Initiative (ASRTI), Group Captain John Ojikutu (Retd) has said that aircraft used first as an equipment to fight the enemies outside has now become the platform for enemies inside (international and homegrown terrorists) to attack the wstate.

In his presentation which aligns with Managing Director, Pathfinders International Limited, Mrs. Nkechi Onyenso both agreed there is need to maintain a multi-layered security infrastructure in the air transportation system to effectively protect the system against any kind of terrorism and/or unlawful interference.

Ojikutu’s presentation, Layers and Passengers Facilitation at the ASRTRI/ART Network 2022 Breakfast Business Meeting which dissected security defence layers, the retired Group Captain identified intelligence, access control, national regulation amongst others structured to protect the nation’s airports.

He said, “Analysis of collected threat related information on groups or individuals that could pose as threats and risk to the National Security and identified and selected by the relevant security Authority for the NCAA on No fly list and Watch list. During passenger pre-screening; identify individuals on national security Watch or No fly list. Prohibit listed individuals from boarding the flight.

“In cases of those designated on the Watch list ensure such passengers undergo enhanced screening before boarding,” he said.

On access control, he stressed that access points are created and controlled to exclude non- travellers and unauthorized staff entry into the airport security controlled areas especially the Airside.

On checkpoint screening for passenger carry-on luggage, he said that the National Regulation require airports to conduct checkpoint screening for all passenger and (in some special cases) enhanced screening for airline selectees and those passenger on State Security Service Watch list.

Mrs. Onyenso while speaking on the topic: Sustaining a Potent Multi-Layer Aviation Security System: The perspective of a Corporate Practitioner in the same event said there is a need to constantly revise and refresh threat assessments regularly stressing that the airports have to be granted necessary resources for a proper and effective implementation of all security measures that mitigate the risks posed by the current and evolving threats to civil aviation.

She said as threats to air travel continue to evolve, airport security is constantly challenged in its ability to maintain a safe, and secure environment for travelers.

She posited that,”Being able to manage evolving threats such as aviation terrorism, unlawful interference, cyber-crime or drone requires frequent innovations and new technology adoption to ensure high security standards. Hence, the need for a Multi-layer Aviation Security System (MLASS).

She went further, “The concept of protecting a computer network with a series of defensive mechanisms such that if one mechanism fails, another will already be in place to thwart an attack. A defense mechanism that mitigates, delays, or prevents threats.

“A security plan designed to mitigate or prevent breaches physically at the airports and in data security threats. Using numerous security solutions to guard the system from threats. A deep defensive security policy should be aimed at preventing threats from becoming dangerous.”

Aviation

Aviation sector to benefit from RIDF

Published

3 weeks ago

March 29, 2024

NewsDirect

Aviation is set to be part of key economic drivers that will benefit from President Bola Tinubu’s proposed Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF).

In a statement by Ajuri Ngelale, the fund targets strategic sectors like agriculture, transportation, ports, energy, healthcare, and education along with aviation.

The initiative plans to inject funds into vital national projects to foster growth, bolster local value addition, generate jobs, and spur innovation.

Efficient use of low-interest loans and financing options will secure advantageous arrangements for project financing and operation.

The focus on aviation enhancement involves modernising major airports nationwide with targeted investments and infrastructure upgrades.

The statement reads, “On aviation enhancement, the focus is on the revitalization and modernization of major airports nationwide. Through targeted investments and infrastructure upgrades, major airports will undergo comprehensive refurbishment, including improvement in terminal facilities, runway expansions, and the implementation of cutting-edge technologies to enhance safety and operational efficiency.”

For agricultural infrastructure, the focus includes developing robust networks like storage facilities and irrigation systems.

In port revitalisation, the goal is to modernise facilities and attract investments to enhance Nigeria’s regional trade hub status.

“By modernizing port facilities and implementing advanced monitoring systems, the goal is to optimize efficiency, attract investments, and bolster Nigeria’s position as a regional trade hub,” the statement read.

Key road projects like Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road aim to enhance connectivity and stimulate economic growth.

Rail projects like Lagos-Kano and Eastern lines will modernise transportation networks for speed and reliability.

President Tinubu’s approval of the RHIDF absorbs the PIDF, expediting project delivery for Nigerians’ benefit.

Projects funded under the RHIDF will have a national spread, reflecting the commitment to equitable development.

Aviation

ICAO Aviation security audit team debriefs Nigeria, indicates strong outing

Published

3 weeks ago

March 29, 2024

NewsDirect

The Team Lead of ICAO Security Audit Programme, Callum Vine, announced Nigeria’s strong performance during a debrief after its Audit.

Nigeria recently concluded the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Security Audit Programme the continuous Monitoring Approach (USAP-CMA) according to a statement emanating from Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, FAAN, Obiageli Orah.

The USAP-CMA aims to improve aviation security compliance by analysing Member States’ performance and implementation of security standards. It focuses on Annex 17: Security Standards and Annex 9: facilitation compliance, along with associated procedures and security practices.

The event held at NCAA Headquarters saw Vine praise Nigeria’s robust policies and agencies, acknowledging their speed in addressing identified deficiencies without complaints.

He mentioned that the full audit report would be available within 60 days, followed by a 30-day period for comments.

FAAN’s Managing Director, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, affirmed using the audit results as a roadmap for continuous improvement.

She urged stakeholders to collaborate closely, share best practices, and uphold the highest security standards in the industry.

The debrief was attended by Dr. Emmanuel Meribole, representing the Minister, and Captain Chris Najomo, Acting Director General of NCAA.

Aviation

Arik Air receives Best Sustainable Airline Company award

Published

3 weeks ago

March 29, 2024

NewsDirect

Arik Air has bagged the award for Best Sustainable Airline of the Year, 2024 by the World Quality Alliance and Quality Standards Journal.

The airline’s Public Relations and Communications Manager, Mr Adebanji Ola, disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen in Lagos.

Ola said the award was presented to the airline at the National Quality Summit 2024 held on March 22 in Abuja.

According to Ola, the Award General Committee of the National Quality Order of Merit, said the award was meant to celebrate leadership innovations and creativity in quality management.

Ola noted that Dr Ovie Shaka, Vice Chairman, Organising Committee of the National Quality Order of Merit Awards 2024, explained that the award was aimed at identifying, recognising and rewarding companies.

“The award also aims at rewarding personalities and products that apply quality assurance culture and quality management best practices.”

He said the award was presented by Stanley Ohenhen, on behalf of the Organising Committee and received by Arik Air’s Director of Safety, Capt. Jide Bakare.

Ola quoted Arik Air’s Chief Executive Officer, Capt. Roy Ilegbodu, as saying that the award is another testament of the airline’s fastidious adherence to operational safety standards.

Ilegbodu said Arik Air was committed to continual improvement of the management system and operational performance.

Recall that Arik Air also won the 2023 Best In-flight Service Airline by the Nigerian Aviation (NIGAV) Award.