The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has announced that it has installed Aeronautical Fixed Telecommunication Network (AFTN) systems in 26 airports across the country.
AFTN is a global network designed to ensure safe and efficient air traffic management. It enables the reliable exchange of important messages and data between ground stations, including flight plans, weather reports, and other critical information.
The announcement was made at a sensitization workshop in Lagos, where the Director of Air Traffic Services, John Tayo, explained the importance of the new systems.
“These installations show NAMA’s commitment to improving safety, efficiency, and technology in Nigeria’s aviation sector,” Tayo said. He added that the modernized AFTN runs on strong satellite facilities, offering better reliability, wider coverage, and faster message delivery. It also serves as a backup to the Air Traffic Service Message Handling System (AMHS).
Highlighting the benefits of the system, Tayo explained that AFTN plays a central role in aviation by enabling timely transmission of flight plans, weather updates, and urgent safety messages. With its standardized protocols, it also allows smooth communication between Nigeria and other countries within the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) network.
He noted that with the rollout across 26 airports, Nigeria now has nationwide coverage and a strong communication system to support long-term growth in the aviation industry.
“The success of this infrastructure will not only depend on its installation but also on how well it is managed and maintained,” Tayo said. “We must take this responsibility seriously and make Nigeria’s aeronautical communication system a source of pride for Africa.”
