NAN-H-72
Agreement
By Sumaila Ogbaje
Abuja, Nov. 14, 2016 (NAN) The Minister of State, Aviation, Sen. Hadi Sirika, says Nigeria is committed to the Yamoussoukro Open Sky Agreement by all African countries towards harmonising the continent’s airspace.
Sirika disclosed this in an interview with newsmen at the 24th Meeting of Western and Central Africa Satellite Network Management Committee (SNMC) on Monday in Abuja.
He said that Nigeria is a signatory to the decision and declaration, adding that plans were on to ratify the declaration for its implementation to come into force.
“As I am talking to you, there is a committee in place to guide the implementation of the YD because we believe in one African Sky.
“We also believe in growth, development and taking leverage and opportunity that we have that available within the African skies to become great.
“The United States is number one aviation nation today because they have decided to open their skies and consolidate their airlines and become much stronger and bigger than any other region on earth.’’
The minister said the only way that African aviation could grow would be to implement fully the Yamoussoukro Decision.
He also said that the Federal Government was committed to providing automated radar system in all its 26 airports, to address the challenges in air traffic navigation and communication.
According to him, government is providing funding in the 2017 budget to address critical safety issues, adding that they would be tackled in phases.
“Very soon, Nigeria will become one of the best air spaces and I assure you it will be a delight flying both by the passengers, the pilots and engineers that are working within the industry,’’ Sirika said. (NAN)
OYS/HS/NKO
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By Hajia Sani/Nkechi Okoronkwo
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