LAGOS, NIGERIA – The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has announced that from Oct. 1, STP 123 Basic Security Training will be mandatory for all aviation security personnel.

This directive is outlined in an All Operators’ Letter dated March 25, with the circular reference NCAA/DAVSEC/HQ/OD/6/1/33.

Capt. Chris Najomo, NCAA Director-General, revealed the content of the circular during a high-level security symposium held in Lagos on Tuesday.

He said certification for all aviation security screeners would become compulsory starting Oct. 1, 2025.

Najomo explained that ICAO Annex 17 Standard 3.4.1 has been incorporated into the National Civil Aviation Security Training Programme (NCASTP).

He added that NCASP stakeholders are expected to implement the STP 123 Basic course without delay.

According to him, this ensures AVSEC personnel are equipped with the knowledge, skills and competence required to carry out their duties effectively.

These skills will support the proper enforcement of security measures under national and airport security programmes, in line with global standards.

Najomo further stated that Section 3 of the NCASCP requires all AVSEC personnel responsible for screening to undergo a certification process.

He emphasised that this applies to screening of persons, baggage, vehicles and other items at the airport.

The directive affects Aerodrome Operators, Aircraft Operators, Air Traffic Services, Cargo and Mail Handlers, Ground Handling, and Catering Providers.

Also included are Aviation Security Service Providers and other Aviation Allied Service Providers, who must fully comply with the regulation.

All affected organisations must provide AVSEC STP 123 Basic training to existing AVSEC personnel as a baseline requirement.

They must also train all new AVSEC recruits using the STP 123 Basic course before allowing them to operate independently.

The circular mandates that training records and certificates be presented to NCAA inspectors during audits or inspections as proof of compliance.