Ekiti, NAMA sign air traffic services pact
By Victor Akinkuolie, Ado-Ekiti
As part of measures to ensure a seamless takeoff of the newly established Ekiti State Agro-Allied International Airport in Ado-Ekiti, the state government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA).
The MoU, which was signed at the NAMA headquarters annex, Murtala Mohammed Airport, Lagos, over the weekend, attracted top officials from the Ekiti State Government as well as senior NAMA officials. The agreement involves the deployment of key professionals from NAMA to the airport for its effective operation.
In his welcome remarks at the event, the Managing Director of NAMA, Engr. Farouk Ahmed Umar, noted that the signing of the MoU, or Service Level Agreement, represents a mutual commitment to excellence and “a shared dedication to delivering exceptional results.” The MoU outlines joint responsibilities, expectations, and standards for air traffic control services, adding that the epoch-making event serves as the foundation for a partnership between NAMA and the Ekiti State Government. According to him, this will ensure that both parties work together seamlessly and efficiently for the effective takeoff and operation of the airport.
Engr. Farouk, who was represented by the NAMA Director of Legal Services and Company Secretary, Mrs. Isemiuhonmon Rita Egbadon, maintained that the MoU is more than a contract; “it is a symbol of action, cooperation, and shared vision.”
He described the signing of the document as “a pledge to uphold the highest standards of quality and performance by both parties, to foster open communication and transparency, and to embrace credibility and adaptability in an ever-changing environment, given that aviation is a catalyst for the development of any economy.”
“If we are able to uphold the tenets of this agreement, we will be able to reap the fruits of our labour. We shall prioritise customer satisfaction and the success of this project. We are not just signing a contract; we are making a promise to each other and to our customers. Let us work together to achieve greatness and make this partnership a shining example of collaboration and excellence,” the NAMA boss said.
Also in her remarks, the Secretary to the Ekiti State Government, Dr. Habibat Adubiaro, who represented the State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, noted that the event marked a crucial moment as the state advanced towards enhancing the safety, efficiency, and reliability of airspace and air traffic management, particularly as the Ekiti State Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport in Ado-Ekiti was on the verge of full operation.
She expressed optimism that the establishment of the airport would boost tourism, facilitate smoother and safer air travel, and subsequently contribute to economic growth, job creation, and improved connectivity for Ekiti State citizens.
She described the partnership with NAMA as a testament to the shared commitment of both parties to advancing the development of aviation infrastructure and services in Nigeria.
“The primary objective of this MoU is to foster a collaborative partnership that will lead to effective air traffic management systems and ensure the highest standards of safety for all airspace users. We aim to leverage NAMA’s expertise and resources to achieve these goals,” Adubiaro said.
While assuring the agency of the state government’s commitment to ensuring the successful implementation of the MoU, Dr. Adubiaro reiterated that collaboration with NAMA would be guided by mutual respect and transparency.
The Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Kehinde Ajobiewe, expressed his appreciation to Governor Oyebanji for working assiduously to ensure the timely commencement of commercial operations at the airport, adding that the MoU signing was a step towards achieving the full certification necessary for the commencement of commercial operations.
Also present at the event were the Technical Adviser to the Governor on the Airport Project, AVM Sunday Makinde (rtd), and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transportation.