In a decisive move to strengthen air travel safety and modernise aviation infrastructure, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved the upgrade of navigational and communication systems at Nigeria’s key airports.
Announcing the decision after Wednesday’s council meeting chaired by President Bola Tinubu, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, described the initiative as a major step toward ensuring safer, more efficient air travel nationwide.
Central to the revamp is the upgrade of Very High Frequency (VHF) radio systems, essential for seamless communication between pilots and air traffic controllers during take-offs, landings, and flights. The systems will be modernised at nine airports, including Lagos, Port Harcourt, Ilorin, Abuja, Kano, Maiduguri, Sokoto, Wukari, and an additional site in Abuja.
“The upgrades will strengthen communication integrity and reduce the risk of miscommunication, which is critical for flight safety,” Keyamo stated.
In addition to VHF enhancements, FEC approved the installation of aeronautical frequency monitoring and interference detection systems. These systems are designed to detect disruptions in radio communication, ensuring reliable dialogue between pilots and ground controllers.
The council also endorsed the deployment of Advanced Surface Movement Guidance and Control Systems (A‑SMGCS) to monitor runway activities and prevent ground collisions. Biometric-enabled e-gates are to be installed at all international airports to streamline passenger processing and improve operational efficiency.
