The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Aireon LLC of United States on exploring the deployment of space-based Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) system in Nigeria. In a statement, the Managing Director, Capt. Fola Akinkuotu said the ADS-B solution which is a recognised next-generation standard for surveillance and air traffic management is a critical requirement in preparation for the implementation of the relevant elements of Aviation System Block Upgrades (ASBU). Signing the MoU at the agency’s headquarters in Lagos, the NAMA boss who expressed optimism that the ADS-B solution would ensure 100 per cent real time surveillance coverage of the Nigerian airspace noted that management was committed to exploring every opportunity and relevant technology to ensure safety of air navigation in the country in compliance with world best practices and regulatory requirements.
Meanwhile, NAMA has been commended for its excellence in delivering expeditious air navigation services within the nation’s airspace. In a letter of commendation addressed to Akinkuotu, the Airport Manager of Virgin Atlantic Airways Limited, Justin Bell said the airline appreciates NAMA’s efficiency in ensuring seamless, smooth and timely movement of aircraft across the Nigerian airspace, adding that the flight control team in the United Kingdom also appreciated the agency for its excellence in air navigation service provision.
In a related development, the Minister of State, Aviation, Sen. Hadi Sirika has given kudos to NAMA for its “diligence and astuteness†in the discharge of its duties. In a letter signed by the Asst. Director of Air Transport, Richard Pheelangwah on behalf of the Minister, Sirika advised the agency to “keep up†the good job it is doing in ensuring safety of air travel in the country.
