The Indispensable Role of Aeronautical Information Services
Speaking on the theme of this year’s World AIS Day, "Safeguarding The Skies: The Vital Role Of Secured Aeronautical Information In Aviation Safety," Dr. Audu underscored the non-negotiable importance of Aeronautical Information Services (AIS) in guaranteeing the safety, regularity, and efficiency of international air navigation. He emphasized that the continued revenue deductions are "stalling essential modernization projects within agencies like the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA)."
Urgent Call for AIS Automation Project Completion
A key point of concern highlighted by the AIMAN president is the prolonged delay in the completion and implementation of the AIS Automation project. Dr. Audu lamented that "Nigeria lags behind neighbouring countries in automation," stressing the transformative impact this system would have once fully operational. The comprehensive automation system is slated to include crucial components such as geographic information systems (GIS), a digital NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) platform, and automated weather observation systems. These vital improvements, he explained, are poised to "enhance real-time data delivery to pilots and support safe flight operations," thereby significantly bolstering aviation safety across the country.
Professionalizing the Aeronautical Information Sector
Beyond the call for government intervention, Dr. Audu also shed light on AIMAN's proactive efforts to professionalize the aeronautical information sector. Under his leadership, AIMAN has "established a licensing committee chaired by Mr. Patrick Afatapa." This committee, he revealed, has made significant strides towards securing official licensing for AIS personnel, a development deemed "vital for professional credibility and operational confidence" within the industry. This initiative aims to ensure that Nigeria's AIS professionals meet international standards, further contributing to the safety and efficiency of air travel.
Nigeria Set to Host International Conference
In a significant development for the sector, Dr. Audu announced that Nigeria is preparing to host the first International Federation of Aeronautical Information Management Associations (IFAIMA) conference in 2025. In anticipation of this global event, this year's World AIS Day celebration will be decentralized and observed at the station level across Nigeria. This strategic approach aims to galvanize support and participation for the upcoming international conference, showcasing Nigeria's commitment to advancing aeronautical information management on a global scale.
World AIS Day, commemorated annually on May 15 since its inception in 1953, serves as a crucial platform to raise global awareness about the pivotal role of Aeronautical Information Services in ensuring aviation safety and operational efficiency worldwide. Dr. Audu's passionate appeal underscores the urgent need for government support to enable Nigeria to meet these global standards and secure its skies for future generations.