Nigeria Achieves 91% Aviation Safety Score, Tops Global Average

Nigeria's aviation safety rating just jumped from 70% to over 91%, placing the West African nation well above the global average and marking one of the most dramatic improvements in international aviation safety.

The International Civil Aviation Organisation confirmed Nigeria now scores 91.45% on its safety standards, compared to the global average of just 70.4%. The achievement comes after years of focused infrastructure upgrades and rigorous safety training across the country's airports.

The most striking improvement happened in airport operations and ground safety, which rocketed from 57.5% in 2023 to 95.16% in 2026. That's a nearly 38 point jump in just three years, driven by better equipment, stronger documentation, and enhanced oversight systems.

The real milestone? Nigeria just became the first country in its history to earn full certification for all five of its international airports. That puts Nigeria ahead of most of the African continent, where only about half of airports currently hold certification.

The latest airport to earn its certification was Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu, completing the set. Each certification reflects upgraded safety systems, trained personnel, and infrastructure that meets international standards.

Henry Agbebire from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria credited the achievement to teamwork across Nigeria's aviation sector and strong government support. The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority worked closely with airport operators to strengthen safety oversight and build better coordination between agencies.

The Ripple Effect

Nigeria's aviation transformation reaches far beyond safety scores. Full airport certification means more international airlines can confidently schedule flights to Nigeria, boosting tourism, business travel, and economic connections across West Africa.

The improvement also sets a powerful example for other developing nations working to upgrade their aviation systems. Nigeria showed that dramatic safety improvements are possible with focused investment and collaboration, even in challenging environments.

For Nigerian travelers, the changes mean safer flights and better airport facilities. For the aviation industry, it means Nigeria is now positioned to receive ICAO Safety Recognition at the next assembly, a prestigious honor that could attract even more international partnerships.

The Federal Airports Authority pledged to maintain the momentum, continuing investments in safety systems and training to keep Nigeria's airports meeting and exceeding global expectations.