BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, has emphasised the crucial role that Aeronautical Information Management (AIM) plays in ensuring safe, consistent, and efficient air navigation.
In his keynote address at the Global Aeronautical Information Management (AIM) Conference 2025, themed “Digital AIM for a Safe and Efficient Global Air Navigation System,” Keyamo urged the aviation sector to embrace innovation and foster collaboration.
He stressed the necessity for a resilient aeronautical information framework, explaining that “information collection, collation, and application play a critical role in ensuring safe, timely, and seamless flight operations.”
Keyamo further highlighted the importance of adapting to change and driving innovation, observing that “the aviation industry is continuously evolving.”
He underscored the need for “a well-trained and highly motivated workforce that can deliver the highest level of service that is globally accepted and in line with ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs).”
Additionally, the Minister pointed out that “adequate and quality training of AIM Officers” is essential, acknowledging the significant influence of human factors on aviation safety.
Engineer Farouk Ahmed Umar, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), reinforced these points by underscoring AIM’s strategic importance in modern air navigation.
He noted that AIM “has evolved from paper-based systems into an intelligent, digital, and interconnected pillar of the global air traffic management system.”
Farouk detailed NAMA’s dedication to digital advancement through initiatives like the Aeronautical Information Management Automation Project (AIMAP) and the National AIM Roadmap, both aligned with the ICAO Global Air Navigation Plan.
He also emphasized the critical need for continuous capacity building in areas such as data integrity, quality assurance, and cyber resilience for AIM professionals.
Reflecting on the conference’s impact, Farouk stated, “The takeaway is that the conference provided a platform for industry stakeholders to share experiences, expertise, and best practices in Aeronautical Information Management.
The event also drove progress and improvement in the aviation industry, with a focus on safety, infrastructure development, and support for local operators.”
As the conference concluded, it became clear that it successfully created opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and shaping the future direction of AIM.
Under the theme “Digital AIM for a Safe and Efficient Global Air Navigation System,” attendees explored cutting-edge approaches, including leveraging System Wide Information Management (SWIM) to boost efficiency.
Hosting this prestigious Global AIM 2025 conference underscores Nigeria’s rising influence in the international aviation arena.
The event championed aviation safety, operational efficiency, and sustainability, particularly through digital transformation and innovation in Aeronautical Information Management.
Ms. Olufunmilayo Adeyemi, President of the International Federation of Aeronautical Information Management Associations (IFAIMA), acknowledged AIM’s growing significance worldwide.
She noted the historic nature of the conference, emphasizing “it was the first time IFAIMA’s flagship event was being hosted in the ICAO WACAF (Western and Central African) region.”
Adeyemi also expressed sincere gratitude to Honourable Minister Keyamo for his steadfast support and endorsement.
Comrade Kabir Yahaya Gusau, Chairman of the conference organizing committee, praised the minister, NAMA, other agencies, and corporate sponsors for their pivotal contributions to the event’s success.
Fondly known as ‘My Regatds,’ the committed trade unionist was visibly dedicated to ensuring the comfort of all delegates and expressed delight at the professionalism exhibited throughout the conference.
