Concerned about the violations of the Nigerian Airspace particularly in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) and the Department of State Services (DSS) have set plans in motion to nip the trend in the bud.
Both agencies have warned that violations by airspace users could lead to severe consequences, including potential military intervention to protect national security assets.
This issue prompted a meeting, held at the DSS headquarters in Abuja over recent airline encroachments into No-Fly Zones.
In a statement, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, NAMA, Abdullahi Musa says, such violations pose significant risks to aviation operations and national security.
According to him, the discussions centered on how to address recent airspace violations and also highlighted the importance of maintaining safety and security within Nigerian airspace.
Both agencies stressed the need to adhere to International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) guidelines, specifically those in Section 4444 of the Procedures for Air Navigation Services – Air Traffic Management (PANS-ATM), which set standardized procedures to ensure the safe, efficient, and orderly flow of global air traffic.
During the meeting, NAMA’s Managing Director, Engr Farouk Umar, emphasized the importance of educating airlines and pilots on following established protocols, paying close attention to air traffic controllers, and maintaining strict security measures.
He underscored that “ensuring the safety, efficiency, and reliability of air travel within our airspace is our primary mission. Strict adherence to ICAO guidelines, particularly those in Section 4444 of PANS-ATM as incorporated by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority in the Nig. CARS Part 14 (2023), security protocols, and designated no-fly zones in the AIP is crucial.”
Engr. Farouk also stressed the necessity for strict adherence to the prohibited no-fly zones as published in the Aeronautical Information Publications (AIP), highlighting this as vital for the security and safety of air navigation in Nigeria.
DSS Director of Security Enforcement, Steve Ojelade, reiterated that no-fly zones are non-negotiable.
