Nigeria may soon witness a major upgrade of its airspace surveillance infrastructure as the Federal Government renews its commitment to strengthening aviation safety following concerns raised by the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) over ageing radar systems.

The Managing Director of NAMA, Engr. Farouk Ahmed Umar, disclosed that the Total Radar Coverage of Nigeria (TRACON) system, a critical component of the nation’s air navigation services, is due for modernization after years of operation.

Speaking during a familiarisation visit by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mahmoud Adam Kambari, Engr. Farouk explained that the TRACON system, deployed between 2008 and 2010, has served the country effectively but is now approaching the end of its technological lifecycle.

He noted that globally, aviation technology continues to evolve, making upgrades essential to maintain compliance with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards and ensure seamless air traffic management.

The TRACON project, commissioned in 2001 as a multi-billion-naira safety initiative, provides comprehensive radar surveillance across Nigeria through a network of nine radar sites, enabling real-time tracking and coordination of aircraft.

Despite the current limitations, Farouk highlighted ongoing efforts and strategic plans by NAMA to sustain operations while preparing for system upgrades.

He also pointed to broader challenges such as funding constraints, rising operational costs, and the need for enhanced manpower and training.

In response, Permanent Secretary Mahmoud Adam Kambari reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting aviation agencies and ensuring the continued safety and efficiency of Nigeria’s airspace.

Kambari emphasized the importance of collaboration across agencies and announced plans to strengthen coordination through regular top management meetings involving key stakeholders in the aviation sector.

He further assured that staff welfare, training, and timely promotions would be prioritised to boost morale and productivity, noting that a motivated workforce is critical to achieving operational excellence.

“We will continue to support all agencies to succeed, ensuring that Nigeria’s aviation industry remains a key economic driver and a hub of global connectivity,” Kambari said.

He also commended Engr. Farouk Ahmed Umar for his leadership, describing him as a seasoned professional guiding the agency through a critical phase.

The renewed focus on upgrading Nigeria’s surveillance systems underscores the government’s broader commitment to aligning the aviation sector with global best practices and sustaining its strong performance in ICAO evaluations.

Nigeria is positioning itself to become the leading aviation hub in West and Central Africa, as the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) rolls out a bold vision anchored on investment, innovation, and strategic partnerships.

Speaking at the Nigerian Aircraft Acquisition and Investment Summit, FAAN Managing Director, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, laid out a forward-looking roadmap designed to unlock the full potential of the country’s aviation ecosystem.

She described Nigeria as a high-potential market driven by strong demographics, growing connectivity needs, and increasing demand for both passenger travel and cargo services.

“Our airports are no longer just infrastructure, they are platforms for investment and value creation,” Kuku said, signaling a shift in how aviation assets are being positioned.

Under this new approach, FAAN is opening up opportunities across multiple areas, including airport terminal upgrades, cargo and logistics hubs, commercial real estate, and Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facilities.

Kuku stressed that such investments would not only improve passenger experience but also reduce airline operating costs, create jobs, and enhance the overall competitiveness of the sector.

She further highlighted the importance of aligning aviation growth with broader continental initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), noting that Nigeria is well-placed to serve as a key gateway into Africa.

The FAAN boss also underscored ongoing reforms aimed at improving ease of doing business, including digitalisation of airport processes, better inter-agency coordination, and a more transparent charges system.

She assured investors and operators of FAAN’s commitment to safety, efficiency, and global best practices, describing a secure and well-regulated aviation environment as critical to attracting capital.

Calling for deeper collaboration, Kuku invited airlines, financiers, and infrastructure investors to partner with FAAN in shaping the future of Nigerian aviation.

“Market confidence is built by consistent, visible action,” she said, reaffirming the agency’s readiness to support bankable projects and adopt global best practices.

With rising demand and a clear reform agenda, stakeholders say Nigeria is entering a new phase of aviation growth, one that could redefine its role in regional and global air connectivity.

Nigeria’s aviation sector has recorded a major milestone as Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, emerged as the fastest-growing airport in Africa in terms of air traffic movements.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, made this known during her closing address at the 2026 Airports Council International (ACI) Africa Regional Conference and Exhibition in Luanda, Angola.

According to data presented at the conference, Lagos airport recorded an impressive 11.8 per cent growth in air traffic movements in 2025—the highest among Africa’s leading airports.

In cargo performance, the airport also ranked among the continent’s top performers with a remarkable 34.4 per cent increase, the highest within the Top 10.

Mrs. Kuku noted that the figures underscore Nigeria’s growing influence in the African aviation landscape, positioning the country as a key hub for air transport, logistics, and commerce.

“These are not just statistics; they reflect the growing strategic importance of Nigeria,” she said.

She further revealed that Nigeria has become Africa’s second-largest domestic passenger market, recording over 10.5 million passengers and a 10 per cent year-on-year growth.

Both Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, and MMIA Lagos were ranked among Africa’s Top 10 for domestic passenger traffic.

Speaking on the broader outlook, Kuku emphasized that airports play a critical role beyond transportation, serving as drivers of economic growth, tourism, and regional integration.

The FAAN boss also used the platform to invite stakeholders across the continent to Abuja for the next ACI Africa conference scheduled for September 2026.

She assured delegates of Nigeria’s readiness to host, promising a memorable gathering that reflects the country’s renowned hospitality and growing aviation stature.