NCAA, Army partner to tighten airport security with canine units

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and the Nigerian Army have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening canine security operations and enhancing aviation security across the nation’s airports and other critical aviation infrastructure.

The agreement was signed on July 10, 2026, at the Headquarters of the Nigerian Army Corps of Military Police, Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Barracks, Asokoro, Abuja.

Under the partnership, both institutions will collaborate on the deployment, training and development of canine units for aviation security operations. The agreement also provides for the qualification of canine trainers and handlers by the Nigerian Army, licensing of operators by the NCAA and specialised training for the authority’s aviation security inspectors.

Representing the Director-General of Civil Aviation, Capt. Chris Najomo, the NCAA Director of Aviation Security, and Dr Ben Omogo described canine operations as a critical component of modern aviation security, particularly in addressing evolving security threats.

He commended the Nigerian Army for its collaboration, noting that the partnership would further strengthen aviation security standards in line with international best practices.

Representing the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, the Provost Marshal (Army), Maj.-Gen. M.O. Erebulu said trained military dogs and their handlers play a crucial role in explosive detection, tracking and search operations.

According to him, the collaboration demonstrates the commitment of both institutions to safeguarding Nigeria’s aviation sector through professionalism, enhanced operational capacity and adherence to global aviation security standards.

Also speaking, the NCAA Director of Corporate Services, Dr Rebecca Eyiuche, described the agreement as a strategic milestone that would deepen institutional cooperation, facilitate knowledge transfer and promote the long-term sustainability of aviation security in the country.

The partnership comes as aviation authorities continue to strengthen airport security architecture in response to evolving global security threats and the growing importance of protecting critical transport infrastructure.