Advertisement
BY ANTHONY OMOH
The Kano Flight Information Region (FIR) is undergoing a landmark audit by the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA). Read More on NAMA
The Kano FIR Audit is regarded as a major step in ensuring Nigeria’s airspace aligns with global aviation safety and efficiency standards.
The Kano FIR, recognized as the designated Nigerian airspace, is a critical part of the global aviation network.
The Kano FIR Audit, which began on Tuesday, covers Nigeria’s entire airspace operations and infrastructure.
The comprehensive review includes inspections at Nigeria’s four international airports, Lagos, Abuja, Kano, and Port Harcourt, along with Enugu, Maiduguri, and several state and private aerodromes.
In addition, Communication, Navigation and Surveillance (CNS) facilities across the country will be examined. Procedures for Air Navigation Services
According to a statement signed by NAMA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Abdullahi Musa, the Kano FIR Audit is a systematic self-assessment.
It targets safety performance, operational efficiency, and regulatory compliance, while also preparing the agency for wider international audits.
This exercise strengthens NAMA’s readiness for Air Navigation Service Provider (ANSP) certification by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
It also boosts Nigeria’s position ahead of ICAO’s Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme (USOAP) Coordinated Validation Mission and the Regional Office Safety Team (ROST) Mission.
Kano FIR Audit Focus Areas
The Kano FIR Audit will evaluate:
* Air Traffic Services (ATS)
* Communication, Navigation and Surveillance (CNS) facilities
* Aeronautical Information Management (AIM)
* Planning, Research and Statistics (PRS)
* Search and Rescue (SAR) operations
The review will identify risks, close gaps, and highlight opportunities for improvement in line with ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations (NCARs).
NAMA’s Commitment to Excellence
Managing Director of NAMA, Engr. Farouk Ahmed Umar, described the audit as a defining milestone in the agency’s 25-year history.
He said, “This audit is a landmark initiative, the first of its kind in NAMA’s history. It is a bold and proactive step to reinforce our mandate of delivering safe, efficient, and seamless air navigation services in alignment with international best practices.”
Engr. Umar added that the audit goes beyond compliance checks.
“It is a declaration of our resolve to constantly improve, to measure ourselves against the highest global standards, and to guarantee that every flight in Nigeria’s airspace is managed with the utmost safety and efficiency,” he stressed.
The NAMA boss emphasized that the exercise would foster accountability, transparency, and continuous improvement within the agency.
It also demonstrates Nigeria’s preparedness for global scrutiny, certification, and cooperation in aviation safety.
He further urged directors, department heads, staff, and industry stakeholders to fully support the audit process.
“The safety and efficiency of our airspace is non-negotiable. The success of this initiative will strengthen our operational systems and consolidate Nigeria’s credibility in the global aviation community,” Engr. Umar stated.
Leadership and Oversight
Meanwhile, Engr. Umar inaugurated the Kano FIR Audit Committee, led by Ahmad Abba, Director of Special Duties.
The committee includes members from air traffic services, CNS/ATM systems, AIM, safety management, and search and rescue.
The team will work with regulatory authorities, industry stakeholders, and frontline staff to ensure the process is rigorous, transparent, and inclusive.
Industry analysts note that this audit, if successful, will place Nigeria among leading African nations that proactively benchmark their aviation safety and efficiency against ICAO standards.
The ongoing Kano FIR Audit is a pivotal moment for Nigerian aviation. It represents a proactive and comprehensive approach by NAMA to ensure the highest standards of safety and efficiency.
This self-assessment prepares the nation for important international certifications and reinforces a commitment to global best practices.
By identifying and addressing operational gaps, NAMA is not only strengthening its own systems but also solidifying Nigeria’s reputation as a leader in African airspace management.
This exercise is a clear declaration of the agency’s resolve to guarantee the safety of every flight.
Advertisement
