At the inauguration of the 28th Meeting of the African-Indian Ocean (AFI) Satellite Network Management Committee (SNMC) in Abuja on Monday, a top government official underscored the nation’s commitment to leveraging satellite technology to foster sustainable air travel.
Aviation and Aerospace Technology Minister Festus Keyamo highlighted how satellite solutions can significantly upgrade Nigeria’s aviation sector, from enhancing air traffic control systems to boosting weather forecasting capabilities.
“By tapping into these solutions, we can bolster safety, boost efficiency, and unlock novel pathways for progress and prosperity,” Keyamo stated, emphasizing satellite networks as the bedrock of modern aviation that enables safer, more efficient, and more eco-friendly air travel.
He outlined the government’s priorities centered on enhancing livelihoods, economic outcomes, harnessing human resources, and creating a level playing field.
Satellite Tech’s Pivotal Role
Keyamo underscored satellite technology’s pivotal role in the Aeronautical Information Services (AIS) Automation project, which employs the Aeronautical Message Handling System (VSAT) network to optimize communication and operational efficiency in Air Traffic Management via the Aeronautical Message Handling System (AMHS).
Aligning with international standards, Nigeria is transitioning its multiplexers to NETPERFORMER technology per the resolutions of the 27th SNMC meeting in Accra in 2019.
These initiatives aim to optimize the aviation sector’s contribution to the nation’s economic growth and bolster security.
Collaborative Endeavors
The Minister commended the SNMC’s efforts in promoting satellite technology’s development and utilization in aviation, ensuring safe and efficient satellite network management in the region.
He emphasized sustained collaboration among members to enhance the African Flight Information System Network (AFISNET), urging the team to harness its potential by aligning network concepts and topologies with Air Traffic Management (ATM) operational requirements.
Addressing spectrum management, fostering international cooperation, and determining service types and levels to improve knowledge sharing and operational efficiency were highlighted as critical tasks.
Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) Managing Director Farouk Umar credited the SNMC with enhancing air traffic management across the AFI regions, noting improvements in navigation procedures, safety standards, and stakeholder collaboration, leading to more efficient operations, reduced communication delays, and better situational awareness.
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