The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has assured the general public of the safety and integrity of Nigeria’s airspace, saying the Federal Government is already in the process of procuring a modern replacement for the ageing radar system.
In the interim, NAMA said it has commenced the deployment of the Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast (ADS-B) system as a reliable backup to the existing radar to ensures continuous, real-time surveillance and guarantee the safe, orderly and efficient flow of air traffic across Nigerian airspace.
In further demonstration of its commitment to safety, NAMA said it has continued to invest significantly in human capacity development.
“In the past year alone, over 140 Air Traffic Controllers, it said have undergone specialized training programmes in reputable institutions abroad, equipping them with contemporary skills in air traffic management and safety procedures.”, it said.
Additionally, the Agency said about 40 Air Traffic Control cadets have been successfully trained and graduated from the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria, and the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Air Traffic Service (ATS) Training Centre, Kaduna.
It added that a further 30 cadets are currently undergoing training at these same institutions to strengthen manpower capacity and address staffing needs.
The agency, which acknowledges that the Eurocat C radar system currently in use is out of date, having been in operation for a considerable period, said : ‘NAMA wishes to categorically refute recent media reports suggesting that the Nigerian airspace is unsafe in terms of communication, navigation and surveillance. These claims are inaccurate, misleading and do not reflect the true state of operations within the nation’s airspace.
“The agency is also not unmindful of the welfare concerns raised by its personnel. Issues relating to career progression, particularly among officers on Grade Level 16, as well as matters concerning post-license allowances, staff claims, stress and fatigue, are receiving the active attention of management in collaboration with the supervising ministry. Concrete steps are being taken to ensure that these concerns are addressed in a fair and sustainable manner.
“NAMA reiterates that safety remains its core mandate and highest priority. The agency will continue to work closely with all relevant stakeholders to ensure the provision of uninterrupted, safe and efficient air navigation services in line with global best practices.
The general public and all airspace users are therefore advised to disregard the unfounded reports and remain assured of the safety and integrity of Nigeria’s airspace”, a statement signed by Dr Abdullahi Musa, Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection for the Agency said.
