The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has acknowledged the obsolescence of many of its navigational aids and is set to embark on the modernization of critical communication infrastructure in the country’s airspace. The agency is particularly focusing on addressing the inefficiencies in the Total Radar Coverage of Nigeria (TRACON), which has experienced challenges due to outdated components.
In a statement released by the agency and signed by Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Addullahi Musa, NAMA assured the public that it is taking immediate steps to tackle the persistent communication challenges within Nigeria’s airspace. The agency acknowledged the complexities that have arisen in the communication between pilots and controllers and expressed commitment to resolving these issues promptly.
Ahmed Farouk, the Managing Director of NAMA, pledged to address the communication problems urgently and declared an emergency on power supply. Given that NAMA’s installations operate 24 hours a day to ensure the safety of aircraft in Nigeria’s airspace, continuous power supply is essential. The agency revealed that it has been spending significant amounts of its revenues on diesel to power generators and is considering investing in solar systems.
“The communication architecture of Nigerian airspace is now broadened, addressing issues that were prevalent before,” stated the agency.
The commitment to modernize communication infrastructure is a crucial step in ensuring the efficiency and safety of air travel in Nigeria. Upgrading the communication systems will not only resolve current challenges but also contribute to the overall improvement of the aviation sector. NAMA’s consideration of alternative and sustainable power sources, such as solar systems, reflects a forward-looking approach to addressing the operational needs of the airspace management agency.
