AIMAN urges Federal Government to expedite AIS automation in Nigeria
The Aeronautical Information Management Association of Nigeria (AIMAN) has called on the Federal Government to accelerate efforts towards implementing Aeronautical Information Services (AIS) Automation across the country.
According to a statement signed by Evelyn Njoku, General Manager, Public Affairs, Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), this appeal was made during the celebration of World AIS Day 2024 by AIMAN’s former President, William George Ngerem.
In his address, Ngerem commended the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo (SAN), for securing a N40 billion intervention fund for NAMA.
This fund, according to him, was intended for the completion of AIS Automation and the upgrading of navigational aids, surveillance, and communication facilities.
Ngerem urged both Keyamo and NAMA’s Managing Director, Engr Umar Farouk, to maintain their commitment to finalising AIS Automation.
He emphasised that this initiative would enhance air-to-ground communication and bring numerous benefits to Nigeria’s airspace.
Ngerem also appealed to the Federal Government to reconsider its policy of automatically deducting 50 per cent of the internally generated revenue from federal agencies at the source.
He argued that NAMA should be exempt from this policy due to its crucial role in ensuring air travel safety, which should take precedence over economic considerations.
During the event, NAMA’s Managing Director, Engr Umar Farouk, announced that the AIS Automation project was nearing completion, with 90 per cent of the work already done.
He assured that the agency is committed to commissioning the project, which is expected to significantly enhance revenue generation and operational efficiency.
“We know that digitalisation is key to development. AIS Automation will introduce a Geographic Information System (GIS) to guide and improve our operations. It will also digitalise the NOTAM system and automated weather observing systems, providing pilots with accurate operational data.
“This project will enable better decision-making and there is no turning back on its implementation,” Farouk stated.
Represented by NAMA’s Director of Legal Services and Company Secretary, Barr. Isemiuhonmon Rita Egbadon, Farouk noted that extensive training for AIS staff is underway to ensure a smooth transition to the automated system.
The World AIS Day celebration in Lagos also included the election of new AIMAN executives, with Dr. Audu Ibrahim being elected as the new President for the next three years.
World AIS/AIM Day is celebrated annually on May 15, and this year’s theme was “Efficient Data Management in an Automated Environment.” The event was marked at all AIS stations in Nigeria.
AIMAN, affiliated with the International Federation of Aeronautical Information Management Association (IFAIMA), plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety, regularity, and efficiency of air navigation in compliance with ICAO’s Annex 15.
