The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has refuted recent media reports alleging that Nigeria’s airspace is unsafe, describing such claims as inaccurate and misleading.
In a statement, the agency maintained that the country’s airspace remains safe in terms of communication, navigation, and surveillance, stressing that its systems continue to operate within internationally accepted standards.
NAMA said the reports do not reflect the true state of operations and risk creating unnecessary concern among stakeholders and the travelling public. It reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining high safety standards and ensuring efficient air traffic management across the country.
While the agency acknowledges that the Eurocat C radar system currently in use is out of date, having been in operation for a considerable period, it is important to state that the Federal Government is already in the process of procuring a modern replacement. In the interim, NAMA has commenced the deployment of the Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast (ADS-B) system as a reliable backup to the existing radar. This measure ensures continuous, real-time surveillance and guarantees the safe, orderly and efficient flow of air traffic across Nigerian airspace.
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In further demonstration of its commitment to safety, NAMA has continued to invest significantly in human capacity development. In the past year alone, over 140 Air Traffic Controllers have undergone specialized training programmes in reputable institutions abroad, equipping them with contemporary skills in air traffic management and safety procedures. Additionally, about 40 Air Traffic Control cadets have been successfully trained and graduated from the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria, and the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Air Traffic Service (ATS) Training Centre, Kaduna. A further 30 cadets are currently undergoing training at these same institutions to strengthen manpower capacity and address staffing needs.
The agency is also not unmindful of the welfare concerns raised by its personnel. Issues relating to career progression, particularly among officers on Grade Level 16, as well as matters concerning post-license allowances, staff claims, stress and fatigue, are receiving the active attention of management in collaboration with the supervising ministry. Concrete steps are being taken to ensure that these concerns are addressed in a fair and sustainable manner.
NAMA reiterates that safety remains its core mandate and highest priority. The agency will continue to work closely with all relevant stakeholders to ensure the provision of uninterrupted, safe and efficient air navigation services in line with global best practices.
The general public and all airspace users are therefore advised to disregard the unfounded reports and remain assured of the safety and integrity of Nigeria’s airspace.
