The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Firstway FZE and Global Software & Digital Solution (GSDS) for the implementation of the Pre-Loading Advance Cargo Information (PLACI) framework in Nigeria.
The agreement, is aimed at strengthening aviation security and enhancing the integrity of Nigeria’s air cargo supply chain.
Implementation will initially focus on inbound air cargo and provide a structured framework for technology deployment, stakeholder onboarding and operational assessment.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Capt. Chris Najomo, described the agreement as an important milestone in efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s aviation security architecture and develop a safer, more secure and internationally compliant air cargo system.
Najomo stressed that the signing of the MoU was not the end of the process but the beginning of the actual implementation.
He urged the partners to adhere strictly to the agreed processes and remain vigilant throughout the implementation, assuring them that any ambiguity that might arise could be brought back for discussion and clarification.
Representing Firstway FZE and Global Software & Digital Solution, Mr Peter Igbinedion said the project had taken about nine to ten months, or longer, to reach the signing stage.
He assured the NCAA of the companies’ readiness and commitment to successful implementation, promising that they would deliver on their responsibilities.
Igbinedion thanked the DGCA, directors and the entire NCAA team for giving the companies the opportunity to contribute to the development of Nigeria’s aviation sector.
The Director of Legal Services and Company Secretary, Mary Tufano-Eche, explained that the lengthy process leading to the agreement was deliberate and necessary to safeguard the integrity of the arrangement and protect the interests of the Authority.
She described the initiative as a significant step for Nigeria, particularly as the country moves into a relatively new area of air cargo security implementation.
Tufano-Eche acknowledged that the MoU might not be perfect but said it provided a strong starting point and would remain a living document that could be amended as implementation progresses.
The ceremony featured the formal signing of the MoU and a group photograph, with all parties expressing commitment to the successful implementation of the PLACI framework.
The initiative is expected to strengthen advance security screening of air cargo and further align Nigeria’s aviation security practices with international standards.