FEC Approves Major Upgrades to Airports’ Navigation, Communication Systems to Boost Air Safety

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved a series of major upgrades to Nigeria’s airport navigation and communication systems, aimed at enhancing air safety and modernising the nation’s aviation infrastructure.

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, announced the approvals on Wednesday while briefing State House correspondents after the FEC meeting chaired by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Keyamo revealed that the council approved the installation of an Advanced Surface Movement Guidance and Control System (A-SMGCS) in Lagos and Abuja airports. The system is designed to detect runway obstructions, improve visibility, and enhance ground safety operations.

In a move to strengthen aviation communication reliability, FEC also approved the procurement of aeronautical frequency monitoring and interference detection systems, as well as the construction of new modular air traffic control towers for eight airports.

READ ALSO:

• NADDC, FRSC Chiefs headline high-stake 2025 NAJA Auto Awards
• Madueke Shines as Arsenal Beat Club Brugge to Maintain 100% Champions League Record
• Fubara Breaks Silence, Accuses Wike-Aligned Lawmakers of Blocking Peace Talks

“Approval was given for the installation of an aeronautical frequency spectrum monitor and interference detection solution to improve communication between ground controllers, tower personnel and aircraft,” Keyamo said.

He explained that the system will significantly boost communication integrity and provide more precise guidance during runway approaches and departures.

Additionally, the council endorsed the upgrade, replacement, and installation of remote-controlled air–ground VHF radio communication systems in nine airports, including Lagos, Port Harcourt, Ilorin, Abuja, Kano, Maiduguri, Sokoto and Wukari.

Keyamo also disclosed that President Tinubu has approved the nationwide rollout of biometric-enabled e-gates at all international airports to fast-track passenger clearance and improve travel experience.

“These upgrades reflect Mr President’s commitment to modernising aviation facilities and ensuring safer, more efficient air travel across Nigeria,” he stated.

The minister emphasised that the comprehensive improvements will align Nigerian airports with global aviation standards and enhance overall operational efficiency.

FEC approves major upgrades to airports’ navigation, communication systems

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.

READ ALSO:

• Kwara Church Attack: Bandits Demand ₦100m Ransom Per Victim
• Fayose-Obasanjo: Two eboras dragging same pair of trousers (1)
• Jonathan warns Nigeria’s democracy is being ‘suffocated’, says politics is not for rascals

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

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.

READ ALSO:

• PDP BoT rejects caretaker committee proposal, insists national convention will hold as scheduled
• Political leaders, labour, civil society launch movement for credible elections ahead of 2027 polls
• EFCC arraigns former Access bank operations head for alleged $510,000 fraud in Enugu

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