By Paul Joseph
The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) is set for a major infrastructure upgrade following the groundbreaking of its new corporate headquarters and Air Traffic Management (ATM) Centre in Abuja by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN).
The N21.6 billion project, awarded to NHD Interbiz Projects Limited, is expected to be completed within 30 months.
Speaking at the ceremony, Keyamo said the development underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to modernising aviation infrastructure to enhance safety and operational efficiency.
“This project is being executed in strict adherence to the Public Procurement Act 2007, following a transparent and competitive tendering process. The contract for the initial phase has been awarded at a cost of N21,684,314,839.40, inclusive of taxes, with a completion period of 30 months,” the minister stated.
He explained that the new complex would combine executive management offices with a state-of-the-art ATM Centre designed to strengthen safety oversight and improve real-time operational response.
“For too long, our agencies have operated in structures that do not reflect their strategic importance. This headquarters will foster innovation, enhance collaboration and boost staff morale,” Keyamo added, stressing that there would be no compromise on quality or timelines.
NAMA Managing Director, Ahmed Farouk, described the project as a transformative step in Nigeria’s airspace management framework. According to him, the unified ATM Centre will consolidate the existing Area Control Centres in Lagos and Kano into a single hub in Abuja.
“From this centre, NAMA will exercise seamless radar control over the entire Nigerian airspace, creating a more cohesive and efficient ‘One FIR’ for Nigeria,” Farouk said.
He also appealed for ministerial support for the deployment of a Dual Surveillance System to enhance both civil air traffic management and military command operations, calling it “a vital national security imperative.”
FAAN Board Raises Concern Over MMIA Terminal Fire
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Board of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Abdullahi Umaru Ganduje, has expressed concern over the impact of the recent fire outbreak at Terminal 1 of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos.
Following an inspection of the affected areas, Ganduje noted that damage to sensitive equipment could slow ongoing aviation reform efforts.
“We have seen the damage that occurred, but we must commend the MD and her team, especially over 150 firefighters who worked until the fire was completely extinguished. It is unfortunate, but no lives were lost,” he said.
Despite the setback, he praised airport management for swiftly providing a temporary terminal to ensure uninterrupted passenger services while reconstruction plans are underway.
“I thought I was in one of the well-developed foreign airports, but I am happy to see I am in Nigeria and in Lagos. The quality of work is commendable,” Ganduje added.
He further disclosed that remodelling work at the international terminal is progressing as part of broader reforms in the aviation sector.
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