NAMA Confirms Nigerian Airports Meet Global Navigation Standards Despite Harmattan Haze

The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has strongly rejected recent media reports. These reports suggested that seasonal Harmattan safety concerns exposed major flaws in Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure. NAMA insists its air navigation facilities are safe and reliable nationwide. They fully comply with all international aviation standards.

In a statement dated December 29, 2025, NAMA addressed a national newspaper publication. The agency expressed concern that the report could misinform the public. It focused on the serviceability of landing aids during Harmattan weather. NAMA acknowledged the legitimate public interest in seasonal weather conditions. However, it stressed that aviation safety discussions must be technically accurate. Conflating weather delays with infrastructure failure creates unwarranted public fear.

Navigational Aids and Compliance

NAMA categorically stated that all navigational aids calibration is routine. Navigational Aids (NAVAIDs) at federal airports are maintained and flight-checked regularly. This is done in strict compliance with ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs). It also follows the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig CARs).

These safety processes are mandatory, not optional. They use NAMA’s dedicated flight inspection and calibration aircraft. Highly skilled personnel verify critical systems. These systems include Instrument Landing Systems (ILS), VOR, and DME. This ensures accuracy and operational reliability.

All maintenance is subject to continuous oversight. The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) audits compliance levels. The NCAA validates inspection cycles and mandates corrective actions.

Transparency and Serviceability Status

NAMA maintains a commitment to transparency. The status of NAVAIDs is published openly. This is done through Aeronautical Information Publications (AIP) Supplements. Airlines, pilots, and international partners can access this data.

AIP Supplement S81/2025, dated October 9, 2025, provided a full update. It showed that most systems were within valid inspection periods. Only ILS facilities at six airports were nearing their calibration due dates. These airports included Maiduguri, Ilorin, and Calabar.

NAMA confirmed a nationwide round of flight calibration. This exercise was successfully completed in December 2025. This restored serviceability timelines across multiple airports. Further proactive calibration is scheduled for early 2026. This covers airports in Katsina, Jos, Ilorin, Yola, and Owerri.

Addressing the CAT III Debate

There is a common public assumption about ILS Category III systems. Many believe CAT III is required at all airports for Harmattan safety. NAMA described this view as technically flawed. It is inconsistent with global aviation practice.

The deployment of Instrument Landing Systems (CAT I, CAT II, or CAT III) is strategic. It is determined by operational needs and traffic volume. Aircraft capability and long-term meteorological data also factor in. Many airports globally operate safely with CAT I or CAT II systems. Their weather conditions do not justify the cost of CAT III.

Low-Visibility Operations

NAMA provided specific data on low-visibility operations in Nigeria. Historical weather data shows the lowest average runway visibility during Harmattan is about 150 meters.

Based on this data, NAMA has published approach procedures. These procedures are aligned with ILS CAT II minima. This level is fully adequate for safe flight operations. It covers the most challenging seasonal conditions in the country. The absence of widespread CAT III systems does not mean compromised safety. Safety is defined by system suitability and reliability.

Nigerian airports with published ILS CAT II procedures are fully capable. They support safe operations within approved minima. Delays or cancellations are largely due to adverse weather. They are also caused by airline operational decisions and aircraft capability. They are not due to a breakdown of navigational aids.

NAMA works closely with the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet). This ensures continuous dissemination of accurate weather information. It also provides real-time air traffic management support. The agency reaffirmed that Nigeria's airspace remains safe. It is professionally managed and aligned with global best practices. For more commercial aviation news and analysis, visit flying.flights.