NAMA installs advanced AFTN system to boost air traffic communication – Newstrends
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NAMA installs advanced AFTN system to boost air traffic communication

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NAMA installs advanced AFTN system to boost air traffic communication

John Tayo, director of Air Traffic Services, NAMA, says the newly installed Aeronautical Fixed Telecommunication Network (AFTN) has been designed to utilise robust global satellite facilities.

Mr Tayo disclosed this on Wednesday during a sensitisation workshop organised by the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) on the newly installed AFTN across 26 airports nationwide.

The workshop, held in Lagos, was designed for both technical and operational staff of the agency.

AFTN is a global, government-regulated system enabling reliable, rapid exchange of essential operational messages between aviation authorities and air traffic management centres.

It transmits flight plans, NOTAMs, meteorological data, and distress messages, serving as the backbone of traffic management while ensuring flight safety and operational efficiency worldwide.

Mr Tayo said the new installation aligns with NAMA’s statutory mandate to provide safe, reliable, and efficient air navigation services across Nigerian airspace and beyond.

According to him, the project represents a bold step towards modernising Nigeria’s aeronautical communication infrastructure in line with global aviation requirements and standards.

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He explained that although the system still runs on the X.25 protocol, it now leverages stronger, more dependable, and advanced global satellite facilities.

Mr Tayo stressed that the improvement ensures wider coverage, enhanced efficiency, and more reliable transmission of essential communication between aviation stakeholders across the network.

“Importantly, it is tailored for Aeronautical Communication operations and doubles as a dependable alternative to the Air Traffic Service Message Handling System (AMHS),” he said.

He emphasised that AFTN continues to serve as the backbone of aeronautical communication globally, guaranteeing continuity, interoperability, and reliability across international air traffic management systems.

Mr Tayo highlighted that the system ensures the timely dissemination of meteorological data, urgent messages, and reduced communication delays, improving efficiency in air traffic management nationwide.

He further noted that AFTN promotes global interoperability by fostering seamless communication between Nigeria and other ICAO member states, reinforcing Nigeria’s integration into the global aviation community.

According to him, the system also provides backup to AMHS. While AMHS is next-generation, AFTN remains a reliable fallback to guarantee operational continuity.

He explained that installations across 26 airports nationwide will further expand national coverage and enhance the overall safety of air navigation services in Nigeria.

On the workshop objectives, Mr Tayo said it would familiarise technical and operational staff with hands-on training, system features, and functionalities of the newly installed AFTN.

He added that it would strengthen staff capacity to manage and troubleshoot the system, while promoting knowledge sharing and best practices for optimal system performance.

The workshop also sought to stress the strategic importance of aeronautical communication in supporting NAMA’s vision for safe, efficient, and cost-effective air navigation services.

Mr Tayo described the AFTN modernisation as proof of NAMA’s commitment to safety, efficiency, and technological advancement within Nigeria’s growing aviation sector.

“However, the true value of this infrastructure lies in how well we operate and maintain it,” he said.

He urged staff to demonstrate professionalism, dedication, and openness, stressing that together they could build a communication system matching the highest global standards.

NAMA installs advanced AFTN system to boost air traffic communication

(NAN)

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FAAN Confirms Enugu Air Plane Suffers Nose-Landing Gear Failure at Enugu Airport

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FAAN Confirms Enugu Air Plane Suffers Nose-Landing Gear Failure at Enugu Airport

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has confirmed that an Enugu Air aircraft suffered a nose-landing gear malfunction while touching down at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, after a flight from Lagos.

According to Henry Agbebire, FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, the incident occurred around 19:10 hrs on Thursday as the aircraft, with registration number SN-BZN, completed its approach on Runway 08. The plane came to a stop on the runway and was unable to move moments after landing.

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FAAN said emergency response teams were “immediately mobilised” to secure the airfield and ensure the safety of all onboard.
“FAAN’s airport emergency resources, including fire tenders and medical standby, were deployed as standard procedure,” the statement said.
“All passengers and crew were safely disembarked and evacuated to the terminal using Apron buses. Evacuation concluded at 19:48 hrs, with no injuries recorded.”

The agency added that its Aerodrome Rescue and Firefighting Services (ARFFS) were already in position as the aircraft and airside were secured. FAAN reiterated that the safety of travellers, crew members and airport personnel remains its top priority, and said further information will be provided once investigations progress.

The incident places renewed scrutiny on Enugu Air, which was launched just four months ago by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.

 

FAAN Confirms Enugu Air Plane Suffers Nose-Landing Gear Failure at Enugu Airport

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NCAA Moves to Prosecute VeryDarkMan, Mr Jollof Over In-Flight Fight, Blacklisting Possible

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VeryDarkMan and Mr Jollof

NCAA Moves to Prosecute VeryDarkMan, Mr Jollof Over In-Flight Fight, Blacklisting Possible

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has announced that popular social media influencers VeryDarkMan (VDM) and Mr Jollof may face prosecution and possible jail terms following their physical altercation aboard United Nigeria Airlines Flight UN0523 at the Asaba International Airport in Delta State.

Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the NCAA, confirmed the development in an exclusive interview with Vanguard.

According to Achimugu, the NCAA will recommend that the Attorney General of the Federation and the Inspector General of Police prosecute the two passengers, while the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) will be advised to place them on a temporary no-fly list.

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He stated:

“The airline is sending a report to the NCAA today. Once received, the relevant department will take necessary action. I have already spoken with our Director of Legal Services and advised that we write to the Attorney General of the Federation and the Inspector General of Police to prosecute the passengers.

“We will provide full details of the incident to aid prosecution. We will also advise AON to blacklist the passengers as a deterrent. If prosecuted, they may face jail terms and fines. The laws are clear.”

A viral video posted on Monday showed VeryDarkMan and Mr Jollof exchanging blows inside the aircraft, prompting shock and panic among passengers.

United Nigeria Airlines later confirmed the incident through its Public Relations Officer, Chibuike Uloka, stating that both men were immediately handed over to airport security.

The NCAA insists the case will be pursued to enforce discipline and ensure safety within the aviation sector.

NCAA Moves to Prosecute VeryDarkMan, Mr Jollof Over In-Flight Fight, Blacklisting Possible

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NCAA to sanction VeryDarkMan, Mr Jollof over fight on Asaba–Lagos flight

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VeryDarkMan, Mr Jollof over fight on Asaba–Lagos flight

NCAA to sanction VeryDarkMan, Mr Jollof over fight on Asaba–Lagos flight

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has announced disciplinary action against social media influencer Martins Otse (VeryDarkMan) and comedian Freedom Atsepoyi (Mr Jollof) after the pair engaged in a physical fight aboard an Asaba–Lagos flight on Monday.

In a statement issued on X, the NCAA condemned the confrontation as “unacceptable behaviour” that endangered passengers, crew and the aircraft.

“There is zero tolerance for unruly conduct onboard an aircraft. Both individuals will face the full weight of the law,” the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection said.

The agency expressed disappointment that public figures with large followings were responsible for such misconduct, stressing that their actions violated aviation safety protocols.

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The NCAA confirmed that the airline involved is expected to submit an official report before legal sanctions are issued.

Eyewitnesses said the clash was fueled by an ongoing social media feud between VeryDarkMan and Mr Jollof, which escalated into a physical altercation in the aircraft cabin. Passengers and crew intervened to restore order.

VDM later posted a video claiming he confronted Mr Jollof, saying:

“I don chop Jollof father for inside plane. He bit me—man wey dey bite.”

The NCAA said a full statement will be released after reviewing reports from the airline and cabin crew.

NCAA to sanction VeryDarkMan, Mr Jollof over fight on Asaba–Lagos flight

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