Category: Aviation

CHUKS OKOH As Muslims prepare for Eid – el-Filtri with expected surge in passenger traffic, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has cautioned passengers to refrain from taking laws into their hands to destroy terminals and airlines facilities as a result of flight cancellations and delays Managing Director of FAAN, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, who spoke while breaking fast with the Lagos airport Muslim communities at an Iftar dinner urged passengers to show understanding pointing out that no airline will willingly delay or outrightly cancel any flight without any reason. Kuku, who spoke through FAAN Director of Operations, Captain Abdullahi Mahmood also urged passengers to get to airports on time and to also under Airlines’ rights. He said :”We urge that passengers should be guided by the law. You buy your ticket, you come to the airport and once there is a challenge, they should understand with the airline. “All this coming, claiming, fighting, breaking things, is not doing any good to anyone. I have never seen anywhere in the world people do that. So, we need to be patient. “We need to understand. Yes, we need to understand our rights, and we need to understand the airlines’ rights also. We need to understand that everyone has their rights.” Mahmood affirmed that “The airlines have rights, in as much as you have your rights as passengers, they have their rights also. So, understand that this right is very, very important. And to make sure that what you call it, then go to the airport on time and then maintain good behaviour at the airport is important,” he said. He disclosed that the authority is making efforts to ensure that all the airports in the country are up to standard. “We are anticipating it and we are making every effort to make sure that our airports are up to standard. We also make sure that whatever it is, facilities of our airport, the runways and everything is all in place for full facilitation of our passengers’ travel.” Also speaking on tackling touting at the nation’s airports, Capt. Mahmood  said FAAN is not resting on eradicating touting at the airports. “You could see the comments from passengers. At least they are seen; people are now understanding. We are taking it very, very seriously. Yes, it’s not something that you don’t expect to change overnight. “It’s the same thing that anytime they say you want to fight corruption, corruption, fight back. You have to understand some people are gaining from this, and you want to move them out of what they are doing. “No matter what it is, they will fight back, but we are ready. We are equal to the task. We are fighting and we are sensitising people to understand that what they are doing is wrong,” he stated.

CHUKS OKOH The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has announced the temporary closure of the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport (SLAA), Ibadan, to facilitate extensive upgrade works aimed at enhancing the airport’s infrastructure and operational standards. In a statement, signed by Mrs Obiageli Orah, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, confirmed that the Federal Government of Nigeria had approved the closure, which became necessary to enable the execution of critical improvements at the airport. The Nigeria Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has consequently closed the runway and suspended airport operations in accordance with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) regulations. The planned upgrades form part of the Oyo State Government’s strategic initiative to elevate Ibadan Airport from a domestic to an international airport. Various improvements and remodelling works are currently underway to meet global standards and improve passenger experience. FAAN emphasised that the closure aligns with aviation safety recommendations and best practices, underscoring the importance of ensuring the safety of both passengers and airport personnel during the upgrade period. FAAN appealed to all airport users and stakeholders for their understanding and cooperation throughout the period of closure and reiterated its commitment to providing safe skies, secure airports, and seamless travel experiences.

CHUKS OKOH The Nigerian Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) has called on the Federal Government to as a matter of urgency, declare a State of Emergency in Air Traffic Management/Communication, Navigation, and Surveillance (ATM/CNS) infrastructure in Nigeria as it is near collapse and invariably nonexistent. In a communique signed by NATCA President and Secretary Messrs Amos Edino and Fahad Muhammed Umar respectively at the 53rd Annual General Meeting held in Kano, the association also urged the government to safeguard ATC resources and staffing decisions (recruitment, training, and retraining) from political interference/pressures. It wants the Nigerian College of Aviation  and the Air Navigational Service Providers  to synergize/synchronize the design and tailor ATC training needs to enhance capacity, specialization, quality, and training frequency. NATCA called for the Air Traffic Control training to be modernised to include reality factors (simulations) so as to enhance knowledge, test new methods, develop skills, and boost learning and confidence. It posited that the welfare of Nigerian Air Traffic Controllers in terms of remuneration (emoluments) and benefits remained amongst the poorest if not the poorest in the region and the world in general and needs immediate review. The communique noted that Air Traffic Control is considered amongst the most complex and highly demanding professions on the planet because of its multitasking nature and so involves stress and/or revolves around stress. It therefore resolved and recommended that Aviation being a critical sector (ATC in particular) and considering the nexus and direct correlation between funding and safety, the Federal Government Should as a matter of utmost necessity, take steps to close the gap in the dearth of critical infrastructure such as Communication, Navigation, and surveillance. Others included, funding the procurement, installation, maintenance, and upgrade of a modern RADAR system, Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS) in line with international best practice for seamless transition to Future Air Navigation Systems(FANS) in the provision of Air Traffic Services which are necessary for Safety and Efficiency of Air Navigation. To exempt the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency from the 50% statutory deductions of revenue from source as this bears negatively on the Agency, hindering critical decision making, eroding financial strength to develop and provide CNS infrastructure and train manpower. To ensure that the ANSP is shielded from political interference and pressure, especially in areas of funding, resource management, recruitment, training and retraining of staff for greater efficiency, productivity, and effective cost recovery. It also resolved to allow the immediate implementation of the reviewed fees, fines, and charges for services provided by NAMA. It further called on the Federal Government through the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development and the Management of NAMA take as a matter of greatest importance the review of salaries/emoluments of ATCOs (in the face of current economic realities) to Meet international best practice. NATCA said it will partner with the Management of NCAT and NAMA to synergise, strategize, and synchronize training in tune with modern trends in innovation, technology, and training to further improve capacity, specialisation, professionalism, quality, and training frequency. The Association said it will liaise with the Management of NAMA to achieve speedy resolutions of the grey areas concerning the ATC Scheme of Service and fast-track its release.

CHUKS OKOH The Asagba of Asaba, Prof. Epiphany Azinge, has publicly commended the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, for his significant contributions to the advancement of Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure. During a visit to the Minister in Abuja, the Asagba expressed the pride of Deltans in the Minister’s transformative initiatives within the aviation sector. In a discussion focused on enhancing aviation in Delta State, the Asagba requested an increase in flight operations at Asaba Airport, citing the city’s strategic importance and advocating for its transformation into a fully operational international airport capable of handling regular international flights and serving as a key transit hub. The Royal father also highlighted the burgeoning talent of young Delta pilots, many of whom have initiated pilot training programs, and sought the Minister’s intervention to support their aspirations through government channels and potential Public-Private Partnerships. In response, Keyamo reaffirmed his commitment to addressing the Asagba’s requests, pledging to personally oversee their progress and ensure they receive presidential attention. Acknowledging Asaba Airport’s strategic location and potential, the Minister concurred that it should become the Eastern aviation hub of Nigeria. He assured the Royal father that discussions with airport concessionaires would be pursued to realize its international status, proposing partnerships with domestic and international airlines to facilitate interlining and enable seamless international travel from Asaba. The Minister expressed keen interest in engaging with Delta’s young pilots, promising to explore opportunities to integrate their expertise into Nigeria’s aviation ecosystem through partnerships or PPP models. The meeting concluded with both the Asagba and Minister reiterating their dedication to collaborative efforts for the continued development of Delta State’s aviation sector.

CHUKS OKOH Nigeria’s foremost airline and the largest carrier in West and Central Africa, Air Peace, has again demonstrated its commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) by conducting a raffle draw at the prestigious Silverbird Man of the Year 2024 Awards. Five lucky winners emerged from the draw, reinforcing Air Peace’s dedication to enriching lives, supporting businesses, and connecting people with boundless opportunities. The raffle draw, a highlight of the distinguished event, saw Abodede Samuel Opeyemi, Comfort Bassey, and Folajimi Olayinka Oduyebo win return economy tickets to any of Air Peace’s domestic destinations, while Osuagwu Divine Nwamarachi and Eremu Precious Tosan struck gold with economy return tickets to London, thus providing them with seamless travel experiences across Air Peace’s extensive route network. Head, Corporate Communications, Air Peace Limited, Dr. Ejike Ndiulo, said the initiative aligns with the airline’s unwavering mission to make air travel more accessible while empowering individuals and businesses to reach their full potential. Speaking on the occasion, the Chairman and CEO of Air Peace, Dr. Allen Onyema emphasized the airline’s role in driving socio-economic development through its robust CSR initiatives. He said Air Peace had continued to set the benchmark for excellence in the aviation industry, not only by providing world-class services but also by actively contributing to community development. The Chairman, also said the airline has consistently championed social causes, supported job creation, and enhanced economic integration within Nigeria and beyond. As the largest airline in West and Central Africa, Air Peace, Onyema, said they remained steadfast in their vision of fostering prosperity through reliable air travel, reinforcing Nigeria’s position as a key player in global aviation. With its expanding domestic and international routes, the airline is making it easier for people to explore new opportunities and for businesses to thrive in an interconnected world. By integrating philanthropy with its corporate vision, Air Peace continues to redefine aviation’s role in national and regional development, ensuring that travel is not just about moving from one destination to another but about unlocking potential and shaping futures. Meanwhile, Air Peace continues to redefine international travel with its London route, offering seamless connectivity from major domestic destinations. Travelers can enjoy up to ₦600,000 in savings when they connect from cities across Nigeria to London, plus an exclusive one free extra luggage offer. This promo runs until March 31, 2025, with an extended travel period until April 15, 2025. Air Peace remains committed to providing world-class services, bridging the gap between Africa and the world, and rewarding its esteemed customers at every opportunity.

CHUKS OKOH The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) and Aero Contractors have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen collaboration in industry-led safety training, knowledge exchange, and human capital development. This will reinforce Nigeria’s commitment to upholding global aviation safety standards. The agreement, signed Monday in Lagos in the presence of key industry stakeholders, establishes a framework for structured training programs, technical collaborations, and the sharing of resources between NSIB and Aero Contractors. The partnership will see NSIB’s Transportation Safety Officers and technical personnel undergo specialised on-the-job training using Aero’s state-of-the-art facilities, including simulators and maintenance workshops. In return, Aero’s technical personnel will benefit from NSIB-led training in accident investigation and related disciplines, creating a robust exchange of expertise. Capt. Alex Badeh Jr., Director-General of NSIB, described the MoU as a transformative step toward mutual growth and safety enhancement. “Today’s MoU is more than just a document; it is a commitment to mutual growth and safety enhancement. Through this agreement, we will work together to design and deliver customised on-the-job training programs for our Transportation Safety Officers and other staff. This initiative will equip our personnel with the skills, knowledge, and practical experience needed to excel in their duties, drawing on Aero’s state-of-the-art facilities, simulators, and technical resources,” he said. Capt. Badeh also emphasised the reciprocal nature of the partnership, noting that NSIB will support Aero’s technical personnel with training in accident investigation and related areas. “This two-way exchange of expertise will benefit both organisations and contribute to the overall safety of Nigeria’s airspace,” he added. The MoU also paves the way for joint conferences, symposiums, and workshops to share best practices, explore emerging trends in aviation, and build capacity across both workforces by deploying their respective facilities and staff, including pilots, engineers, dispatchers, and flight attendants. NSIB and Aero Contractors aim to strengthen their ability to prevent accidents, respond effectively to incidents, and uphold the highest safety standards in line with international benchmarks, such as the Standards and Recommended Practices of Annex 13 to the Chicago Convention. Capt  Ado Sanusi, Managing Director/CEO of Aero Contractors, emphasised the importance of the partnership, stating, “Safety is not just a regulatory requirement; it is the cornerstone of our industry. With over 60 years of experience in the aviation sector, Aero Contractors has cultivated a deep-rooted safety culture, and we firmly believe that Safety is everyone’s business. This MoU underscores our commitment to investing in the future of a safe Nigerian airspace by sharing our expertise, experience, and technical knowledge with NSIB.” Sanusi further highlighted the role of on-the-job training (OJT) in fostering continuous learning and professional development for NSIB personnel. “Through this partnership, we aim to equip NSIB’s Transportation Safety Officers with the practical skills and knowledge needed to excel in their duties, leveraging Aero’s state-of-the-art facilities, simulators, and technical resources,” he added. A Steering Committee, comprising representatives from NSIB and Aero Contractors, will oversee the implementation of the MoU. The agreement also outlines provisions for periodic reviews and amendments to ensure its continued relevance in addressing the dynamic challenges of aviation safety. An industry stakeholder and aviation safety advocate, Engr. Musa Adamu, Managing Director of Universal Aviation Group, welcomed the initiative, stating:”This partnership is a model for how regulatory bodies and industry players should collaborate to enhance Safety. The aviation sector is highly complex, and training must evolve to keep pace with technological advancements and global best practices. “NSIB and Aero Contractors are setting a precedent that should be emulated across other quarters of the transportation industry.” Both parties have also agreed to uphold the highest levels of confidentiality and professionalism throughout the partnership. Shared information will be used solely for safety investigation training, ensuring trust and integrity in the collaboration. With this agreement, NSIB and Aero Contractors reaffirm their shared vision of a safer, more resilient aviation sector. As the partnership takes flight, it promises to elevate the standard of aviation safety training, ensuring that Nigeria remains at the forefront of transportation safety excellence in the region. Photo Director General of the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), Captain Alex Badeh Jr. and Chief Executive Officer of Aero Contractors, Ado Sanusi displaying the signed Memorandum of Understanding while sealing the partnership with a handshake at Aero Contractors headquarters in Lagos.    

CHUKS OKOH The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has been recognized for its commitment to transparency and accountability. This is just as the regulatory agency achieved the Independent Corrupt Practices & Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) standards for Anti-Corruption and Transparency Units (ACTUs) in Ministries, Departments & Agencies (MDAs) for the year 2023. This significant achievement asserts the NCAA’s dedication to fostering a culture of integrity within the aviation sector. The announcement was made during a recent induction ceremony for newly appointed members of the NCAA’s ACTU, held at the Authority’s Corporate Headquarters in Abuja. Barr. (Mrs.) Bukola Aduragbemi Teriba, the NCAA’s Lagos Regional Manager, presided over the ceremony, emphasizing the critical role of the ACTU in maintaining ethical conduct and preventing corruption. The event, which took place on Thursday, March 13th, 2025, was attended by key figures within the NCAA, including Director General, Capt. Chris Najomo. The presence of the Director General signaled the high priority placed on anti-corruption measures by the authority’s leadership. The achievement is seen as a crucial step in bolstering public trust in the aviation regulatory body, and ensuring the continued safe and efficient operation of Nigeria’s airspace. As the NCAA strengthens its internal mechanisms for transparency, industry observers anticipate a ripple effect, fostering greater accountability across the wider aviation landscape. The commitment to ethical practices is expected to further enhanceFTZ Nigeria’s standing within the international aviation community.

CHUKS OKOH The coordinator of the 14th Nigeria Aviation Award Performance Review community Mr Fortune Idu says, aviation stakeholders have overwhelmingly passed vote of confidence on the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Mr Festus Keyamo as the Aviation Personality of the Year 2024%.   According to Mr Idu, this was shown at the just concluded Nigeria Aviation award votes opened to public survey for the 14th NIGAV Awards He said it was a true vote of public confidence in the leadership of Keyamo has been passed by the overwhelming score of 72% of the 4128 industry votes cast for the Aviation Personality of Year position. Nigeria Aviation Award is the leading industry specialist performance recognition award that covers all aspects of the aviation service delivery value chain, which is endorsed by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority and completely coordinated by an independent private organization, which is a known industry development promotion specialist. NIGAV Awards has made history with a record of over 4000 voters visiting the site, as against the average 350 responders which was usually recorded for such surveys. “This overwhelming development shows increased industry and public awareness and more interest in the affairs of this administration and the acceptability of the new Aviation process that is being instituted in this era” . “The results of the vote are being gathered and more winners will emerge in various categories and more contributors to Aviation development will be honored” The organizer has promised that the event will be outstanding, with the expected attendance of His Excellency, the Governor of Lagos and the crowning of King and Queen of the Air by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Mr Festus Keyamo. “The NIGAV Awards is different from other awards in the aviation sector as it is purely based on voting and not by selection, making the process more transparent and credible, devoid of favoritism and manipulations” Idu noted The NIGAV 2024 awards have been slated for 11th April 2025, at the NIGAV Expo Event Centre, Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos from 2pm Theme of this years NIGAV awards is ‘Foundation for Accelerated Aviation Growth’ (FAAG) is expected to highlight the achievements of the present administration over the past year in establishing the groundwork necessary for positive and sustainable growth in the aviation business.  

CHUKS OKOH The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has officially handed over ownership of the Navigational Aids Flights Inspection and Surveillance (NAFIS) hangar in Lagos to the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) in a formal ceremony which took place at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos. The transfer ceremony which featured the signing of documents by top officials of NAMA and NCAA and witnessed by representatives of the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development was a culmination of activities which commenced earlier in the week with the inspection of premises and verification of assets contained in the inventory of assets sent to the ministry by the regulatory agency ahead of the handover. Some of the assets ceded to NAMA include the hangar, an unserviceable calibration aircraft (HS-125), Ground power generator, a flight calibration laboratory, library, offices among others. In her remarks after the handover, the representative of NAMA Managing Director and Director of Safety Electronics and Engineering Services, Engr Terese Iheanacho expressed optimism that the takeover of the facility by NAMA would not only boost the capacity of the agency in calibration of air navigation systems in the country but also enhance seamlessness and efficiency in the agency’s operations. “You would recall that the Federal Government in a bid to reposition NAFIS as a key player providing efficient flight calibration services globally, transferred the operation of the Beechcraft KingAir 350i flight calibration aircraft with registration marking 5N-CAA and crew to the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency  (NAMA). It is worthy of note that NAMA has developed indigenous flight calibration crew with capacity to undertake routine and commissioning flight calibration services. With this development NAMA is now fully ready to extend her flight calibration services beyond the shores of Nigeria. The Ministerial directive is what we are implementing here today,” Iheanacho said.

.. to install state of the art facilities CHUKS OKOH The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) is set to bring sanity to the cargo section of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport Ikeja, with planned introduction of biometrics for all occupants Already, the process of the sanitization has commenced with the markings of some shops for demolition to give way for construction of a befitting structure as the airport accounts for over 90% of cargo in the country Investigation revealed that in the process of sanitizing the cargo business, only those statutorily recognised by law will be allowed access to operate in order to create enabling environment, while facilities that will support cargo process will be improved upon. It was gathered that the Directorate of cargo has kick started the process of registering all the agencies in the section to ensure proper documentation. With the division of the place into three, registration, biometrics and the access control, it’s expected that when completed nobody will be allowed into the area from the gate It was also gathered that movement of trucks will be reduced as the ‘call up’ system will be adopted for trucks, only those with cargo will be expected to access the area with proof Within few weeks of the commencement of registration, over 80 percent of the Customs licensed agents has been documented while the airlines and ground handlers are being done In cargo business, efficiency, security and compliance are very important hence it was learnt that stakeholders engagement has commenced With the intention of the Directorate to develop cargo support services, such as buildings to house holding, common examination bay, sorting and packaging, it is expected that the process will eliminate human inter face especially with the security agencies It was learnt that the Federal Government through FAAN will be running the facilities as a Joint Venture with the private sector So many stakeholders have expressed concern over the way the cargo section was being run saying it lacked sanity and remained a security threat without control. Few years ago, FAAN moved to curb illegal activities and touting at the ever busy hajj camp terminated by sanitising the densely populated area by reducing commercial activities to 12 hours. Reacting to the development, an aviation expert and the secretary of Aviation Round Table, Mr Olumide Ohunayo condemned the the way the cargo section was being run saying that the master plan of the area has never been followed. Ohunayo noted that the inability of the managers of the place to embrace latest technology remained the bane of the section as most of activities were on paper work instead of IT based. He commended the crowded nature of the cargo section with the way and manner trucks drop off and pick cargoes saying it gives room for stealing Ohunayo revealed that there need to overhaul the whole system especifically the so called automation of the entrance gate which has gone bananas. He suggested the call up system for cargo movements through improved automation systems and stop free entry and free exit into the section. He further condmned the attitude of agents hawking within the premises According to Ohunayo, what was needed at the section is proper planning saying that presence of agents at the section was not necessary and urged FAAN to go into partnership to run the area successfully Stakeholders are of the view that with the creation of the cargo Directorate in FAAN, the face of cargo business in the country will change for better.