The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority has announced that local airports and airstrips operating without valid permits will face sanctions starting January 1, 2026.

This warning was disclosed by the NCAA’s Director of Aerodrome and Airspace Standards, Godwin Balang, during the Airstrip Owners and Operators Stakeholders Engagement Programme held in Lagos on Monday, according to a report by the News Agency of Nigeria.

Balang emphasized that the move was not intended as a threat but reflected a collective resolve to enforce regulatory compliance across the aviation sector.

According to the Balang, Nigeria has approximately 92 airstrips nationwide, as recorded in the NCAA’s database.

“The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has warned that local airports operating without the necessary permits will face sanctions starting Jan. 1, 2026.

“The Director of Aerodrome and Airspace Standards at NCAA, Godwin Balang, made this known on Monday at the Airstrip Owners and Operators Stakeholders Engagement Programme in Lagos,” the NAN report read in part.

It added, “He said there are about 92 Airstrips (operational, non-operational, and some under rehabilitation/new constructions) in Nigeria based on the existing NCAA Airstrip database. According to him, interestingly, a few are already up to date with their valid operational permits.”

Balang noted that 68 airstrips are managed by the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, while 24 are owned by individuals and private organisations, emphasizing the need for closer collaboration between the NCAA and the Ministry to enhance regulatory oversight.

He explained that Section 71(3) and (4)(a) of the Civil Aviation Act (CAA) 2022 empowers the NCAA to certify aerodrome operations and establish minimum safety standards.

In light of recent developments in the aviation sector, Balang said the Authority would revise its regulations and place greater emphasis on aviation security to address emerging threats.

Also speaking at the event, NCAA Director-General, Capt. Chris Najomo, reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to enforcing compliance with national regulations and global best practices.

He stated that the engagement was aimed at strengthening communication with state and private airstrip operators, clarifying regulatory requirements, and promoting the adoption of global standards.

Najomo added that the NCAA was developing tailored regulations for airstrips, distinct from the stricter standards applied to major aerodromes, in order to support the growth of general aviation while maintaining safety.