The importance of effective emergency response coordination in ensuring the safety of lives and property, as well as the security of airport operations has been identified as sacrosanct to effective airport management.
The Airport Manager of Gateway International Airport (GIA), Mr. Adebowale Arogundade made this known during a stakeholders’ meeting on emergency preparedness and response at the Gateway International Airport, Iperu during the weekend.
The meeting brought together representatives of TRACE, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Craneburg Construction Company, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Amotekun Corps, the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian Army, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), the Safety Management and Operations Departments of GIA.
Speaking at the meeting, Mr. Arogundade, noted that prompt coordination among relevant agencies was critical to minimising risks and managing emergencies effectively whenever they occur.
According to him, aviation safety depended largely on the readiness of emergency responders and the ability of stakeholders to work together seamlessly during incidents.
He explained that emergencies within the aviation sector required swift action, clear communication and close cooperation among all agencies operating within the airport environment.
Mr. Arogundade, further stressed that regular drills and simulation exercises are necessary to test response capabilities, identify operational gaps, and strengthen inter-agency collaboration.
“The effectiveness of our emergency response system is measured by how quickly and efficiently all stakeholders can coordinate their actions during an incident. Continuous training and preparedness remain essential to safeguarding lives and property,” he said.
The GIA Airport Manager also reaffirmed the Airport’s commitment to maintaining a robust emergency response framework through regular training, capacity building and strict adherence to global aviation safety regulations.
In his remarks, the Amotekun Team Leader, Mr. Awotubo Abiodun, highlighted the need for improved communication channels and stronger collaboration among responding agencies to ensure prompt and effective emergency management.
The meeting formed part of ongoing efforts by the Airport management to enhance operational safety and maintain a high level of preparedness for any emergency situation that might arise within the airport environment.
