BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency, (NAMA) has dismissed reports questioning the safety of Nigeria’s airspace, insisting that communication, navigation and surveillance systems remain reliable despite ongoing upgrades to ageing infrastructure.
In a statement by its Spokesman, Dr Abdullahi Musa, the agency described recent media claims as “inaccurate and misleading,” stressing that they do not reflect the true state of operations within the country’s aviation ecosystem.
NAMA acknowledged that its long-serving Eurocat C radar system is due for replacement, noting that the Federal Government has already commenced procurement of a modern alternative.
To bridge the gap, the agency said it has begun deploying the Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast (ADS-B) system as a backup.
According to NAMA, the ADS-B deployment ensures continuous, real-time monitoring of aircraft movements, thereby sustaining safe, orderly and efficient air traffic flow across Nigerian airspace.
The agency also pointed to ongoing investments in manpower development as part of efforts to strengthen safety standards.
It disclosed that more than 140 Air Traffic Controllers underwent specialised training at reputable international institutions over the past year, enhancing their expertise in modern air traffic management and safety procedures.
In addition, about 40 cadets have been trained and graduated from the (NCAT), Zaria, and the Air Traffic Service Training Centre in Kaduna. Another 30 cadets are currently undergoing training at the same institutions to bolster staffing capacity.
On staff welfare, NAMA said it is actively addressing concerns raised by personnel, including career progression challenges, particularly among officers on Grade Level 16, as well as issues relating to post-licence allowances, claims, stress and fatigue.
Management, the agency added, is working closely with the supervising ministry to implement fair and sustainable solutions.
Reiterating its core mandate, NAMA emphasised that safety remains its highest priority and pledged continued collaboration with stakeholders to maintain global best practices in air navigation services.
It urged the public and airspace users to disregard what it termed unfounded reports and remain confident in the safety and integrity of Nigeria’s airspace.
Olapeju is a journalist and aviation reporter.
