Engr. Farouk Umar, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), has stated that a lack of sufficient funding is currently hindering the modernization of the nation’s aviation infrastructure. He emphasized that the agency requires more financial backing to replace outdated navigational and surveillance equipment that has been in operation for over twenty years.
Umar explained that NAMA’s internally generated revenue is largely exhausted by operational costs, including staff salaries and other financial commitments, leaving little for capital projects. According to the Managing Director, the current communication architecture and surveillance systems have deteriorated significantly, having exceeded their functional lifespans. He noted that even at the time of installation, some technology was already nearing obsolescence due to lengthy project timelines.
The agency head encouraged the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to support their request for better funding, suggesting that the current legislative framework limits the regulator’s ability to assist effectively. Umar argued that for NAMA to meet the safety standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), the existing laws must be reviewed to reflect modern economic and technical realities. He warned that failing to invest in technology now risks isolating Nigeria from the global aviation community, as airspace safety demands constant innovation.
