Nigeria: Aviation Minister explores partnership with Thales for upgrade of cutting-edge radar system in Nigeria
Nigeria’s Minister for Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo has embarked on a crucial working visit to Thales, the distinguished global air surveillance radar provider based in France.
Keyamo, accompanied by his team, including aviation expert, Layi Are, seeks to revolutionise Nigeria’s radar system through a comprehensive upgrade.
Thales, with a rich history dating back to 1938, has been a key player in global radar system installations, leaving its mark on major international airports.
The Minister’s Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Tunde Moshood, disclosed that the ministerial delegation made its way to Thales’ headquarters in Rouen-Ymare, located two hours from Paris, to inspect the latest radar equipment and gain a firsthand understanding of its functionality.
“I have taken my time to come all the way because I want the best equipment for my country. I want the Nigerian aviation sector to compete favorably in terms of the installation of the latest equipment. That’s why I am here to take a tour and see the latest radar equipment in town,” expressed Minister Keyamo.
Lionel DE Castellane, Vice President of Thales in charge of Civil Radars Segment, warmly welcomed the Honourable Minister, guiding him through the inspection of facilities.
Castellane emphasised the urgency of upgrading Total Radar Coverage at Nigerian airports, particularly at major hubs like Lagos, Abuja, Kano, Enugu, and Port-Harcourt.
Highlighting the ongoing TRACON (Total Radar Coverage of Nigeria) project initiated 18 years ago, Castellane informed the Minister that phase 1, signed with the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) in 2022, is 80 percent complete and set for May 2024 completion.
Discussions on financing for subsequent phases are underway, with Thales securing a €30.6 million loan from Commerzbank Group, supported by the French Guarantee Agency.
“We’re only waiting for the Nigerian government to give us the nod to formalize the financing arrangements. Even as we speak, the Commerzbank director here in France is a call away anytime; she’s ready to travel to Nigeria for the formalities,” stated Castellane.
In recognition of Minister Keyamo’s visit, Thales presented him with a beautiful radar system model as a token of appreciation for the collaborative efforts toward advancing Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure.
