Security experts in the aviation sector have pinpointed complacency, incompetence, and excessive dependence on technology as key drivers of the increasing insecurity in global aviation. These insights were shared on Monday during the Nigeria AVSEC 2025 Workshop and Exercise held at the Lagos Airport, with the theme “Airport & Airspace Security: Functions of National Security.” The event was organized by Centurion Aviation Security & Safety Management in partnership with Green Light Ltd.
At the workshop, participants acknowledged that while technology has greatly enhanced aviation safety, it has also introduced new vulnerabilities. They urged governments worldwide to take proactive steps through regular risk assessments, improved inter-agency cooperation, and continuous personnel training to address emerging threats.
Delivering a paper titled “Emerging Trends in Airport Security – An International Perspective,” Mr. Philip Baum, Managing Director of Green Light Ltd, warned against the growing complacency among aviation security staff. He noted that overfamiliarity with the work environment often leads to reduced alertness. Baum criticized the practice of pre-announced audits, saying it promotes box-ticking rather than genuine preparedness. “If you’re only preparing for an audit, something is wrong,” he said. “Readiness must be constant because the real threat comes when you least expect it.” He further cautioned that overreliance on technology and poor information sharing among agencies undermine effective security operations.
Similarly, Major (Rtd.) Saiful Islam of the Bangladesh Army identified hijackings, airport and aircraft attacks, and sabotage as major security challenges. He linked these to factors such as poor communication, lack of teamwork, stress, fatigue, limited resources, and digital distractions. To reverse the trend, he called for regular training, motivation, coordination among agencies, and strict compliance with international aviation security standards.
Adding to the discussion, Mr. Stephen Ukegbu, an Aviation Security Officer with the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), noted that overlapping responsibilities among the various security agencies at Nigerian airports often cause conflict and inefficiency. He recommended the establishment of a centralized command structure to promote coordination and synergy. “For us to achieve real progress, we need one united team,” he emphasized, pointing out that passengers judge airport security based on the collective performance of all agencies.
In his remarks, Group Captain John Ojikutu (Rtd.), Managing Director of Centurion Aviation Security, said the workshop aimed to strengthen collaboration among security agencies at the nation’s airports. He expressed concern that a lack of uniformity and cooperation exposes the aviation sector to increased risks. Ojikutu stressed that aviation security should be treated as a core component of national security, whether in civil or military contexts. Drawing lessons from the United States, he urged the Nigerian government to implement a coordinated security framework that unites all airport agencies under one operational command.
Overall, the experts agreed that global aviation must shift from routine compliance to a culture of vigilance, accountability, and shared responsibility, ensuring that the industry remains resilient against evolving security threats.
