The Aeronautical Information Management Association of Nigeria (AIMAN) has issued a compelling plea to the Federal Government to reconsider its current policy of 50% revenue deduction from aviation agencies. This practice, according to AIMAN President Dr. Ibrahim Audu, is significantly hindering crucial upgrades to outdated facilities essential for maintaining the safety and integrity of Nigeria’s airspace. Speaking on the occasion of the 2025 World Aeronautical Information Service (WAIS) Day, Dr. Audu emphasized the critical link between adequate funding and the ability of agencies like the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) to modernize their infrastructure and ensure the safe and efficient operation of air traffic. He argued that these revenue deductions are effectively crippling efforts to enhance safety and efficiency in Nigeria’s airspace, posing a potential risk to both domestic and international air travel.
The theme of this year’s WAIS Day, “Safeguarding The Skies: The Vital Role Of Secured Aeronautical Information In Aviation Safety,” underscores the indispensable role of Aeronautical Information Services (AIS) in facilitating safe and efficient air navigation. AIS encompasses a broad range of services, including the provision of timely and accurate information about airspace conditions, weather updates, navigational aids, and potential hazards. It forms the bedrock of safe air travel by providing pilots and air traffic controllers with the essential data needed to make informed decisions and maintain safe separation between aircraft. Dr. Audu’s appeal highlights the direct correlation between the financial health of aviation agencies and their capacity to deliver these critical services effectively. Without adequate funding, the ability of these agencies to maintain and upgrade their systems is severely compromised, potentially jeopardizing the safety and efficiency of air travel within Nigeria.
Dr. Audu specifically pointed to the protracted delay in completing the AIS Automation project as a prime example of how revenue cuts are impacting crucial modernization efforts. This project is designed to equip NAMA with state-of-the-art technology, such as geographic information systems, a digital NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) platform, and automated weather observation systems. These enhancements are intended to improve real-time data delivery to pilots, thereby enhancing situational awareness and contributing to safer flight operations. However, the continued siphoning of funds from aviation agencies has stalled the implementation of this critical project, leaving Nigeria lagging behind its neighbors in terms of AIS automation and potentially compromising the safety of its airspace.
The president of AIMAN highlighted the importance of professionalization within the AIS sector, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to establish a licensing framework for AIS personnel. Under Dr. Audu’s leadership, AIMAN has established a licensing committee chaired by Mr. Patrick Afatapa. This committee is making significant strides towards securing licensing for AIS professionals, a move that underscores the association’s commitment to enhancing professional standards and bolstering operational confidence. The introduction of licensing will not only recognize the specialized skills and knowledge required for AIS roles but also contribute to greater accountability and professionalism within the sector. This initiative aligns with international best practices and demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to upholding the highest standards in aviation safety.
Looking ahead, Nigeria is preparing to host the first International Federation of Aeronautical Information Management Associations (IFAIMA) conference in 2025. This prestigious event will bring together aviation professionals from around the world to discuss and share best practices in aeronautical information management. In anticipation of this global gathering, Dr. Audu announced that this year’s WAIS Day celebration will be decentralized and observed at the station level, aiming to mobilize support and generate enthusiasm for the upcoming IFAIMA conference. This decentralized approach is intended to broaden participation in the WAIS Day commemorations and raise awareness about the critical role of AIS among a wider audience within the aviation community.
World AIS Day, celebrated annually on May 15th since its inception in 1953, serves as a global reminder of the essential role that AIS plays in ensuring the safety and efficiency of air travel. It provides an opportunity to recognize the dedicated professionals who work tirelessly behind the scenes to provide pilots and air traffic controllers with the information they need to navigate the skies safely. The commemoration of World AIS Day reaffirms the global aviation community’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards in aeronautical information management and promoting the continuous improvement of AIS services for the benefit of all air travelers. Dr. Audu’s appeal to the Nigerian government serves as a timely reminder of the crucial link between adequate funding and the ability of aviation agencies to fulfill their critical mission of safeguarding the skies.
