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 Nigeria's airports and critical aviation infrastructure.

The agreement was signed on Friday at the Headquarters of the Nigerian Army Corps of Military Police, Shehu Musa Yar'Adua Barracks, Asokoro, Abuja.

The MoU provides a framework for collaboration in the deployment, training, and development of canine units for aviation security. It also covers the qualification of canine trainers and operators by the Nigerian Army, licensing by the NCAA, and the training of NCAA aviation security inspectors.

Speaking at the signing ceremony on behalf of the Director-General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Capt. Chris Najomo, the Director of Aviation Security, Dr. Ben Omogo, described canine operations as a critical component of modern aviation security, particularly in addressing emerging security threats.

He commended the Nigerian Army for its partnership and support in advancing security standards within Nigeria’s aviation sector.

Representing the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, the Provost Marshal (Army), Major General M.O. Erebulu, highlighted the strategic importance of canine units in security operations.

According to him, trained military dogs and their handlers significantly enhance explosive detection, tracking, and search capabilities, making them valuable force multipliers in security management.

 

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Erebulu noted that the partnership reflects the shared commitment of both institutions to safeguarding Nigeria’s aviation industry through professionalism, capacity building, and adherence to global best practices. He also praised the NCAA for its dedication in bringing the initiative to fruition.

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

Among NCAA officials present at the event were Mrs. Morenike Igbinoba, Deputy General Manager (Evaluation and Regulation); Mr. Austine Okeze, Deputy General Manager (AVSEC); Mr. Wole Oludare, Deputy General Manager (Quality Control); and Mr. Achi Christopher, AVSEC Inspector.

The Nigerian Army delegation included Brigadier General S. Salihu, Chief of Staff, Headquarters Nigerian Army Corps of Military Police; Colonel S.O. Okebukola, Acting Director of Legal Services (Army); Brigadier General A.A. Alkali, Commandant of the Nigerian Army Dog Centre, Lagos; alongside commanders and principal staff officers.

The partnership is expected to strengthen aviation security capabilities, improve threat detection, and align Nigeria’s aviation security framework with international best practices.