The Federal Executive Council, FEC, has approved sweeping upgrades for navigational, communication, and passenger-processing systems across Nigeria’s airports, marking a significant push to modernise aviation infrastructure and strengthen air safety nationwide.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, briefed State House correspondents after the meeting chaired by President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday in Abuja.
He said the approval covers new technologies designed to enhance ground movement, boost communication integrity, and improve passenger experience at key airports.
Keyamo announced that Lagos and Abuja airports will receive an Advanced Surface Movement Guidance and Control System—a critical installation that detects runway obstructions, prevents conflicts, and enhances safety during aircraft taxiing and ground operations.
The system is widely used in advanced aviation hubs to reduce human error and support efficient air traffic management.
FEC also endorsed the construction of new modular air traffic control towers for eight airports, alongside an aeronautical frequency monitoring and interference detection solution to improve communication reliability between pilots and air traffic controllers.
“Approval was given for the installation of an aeronautical frequency spectrum monitor and interference detection solution to improve communication between ground controllers, tower personnel and approaching or departing aircraft,” Keyamo said.
He explained that the system strengthens communication integrity and ensures more precise guidance during runway approach and departure operations, contributing to safer, more coordinated flight movements.
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In addition, the council approved the procurement, replacement, and upgrade of remote-controlled air-ground VHF radio communication systems in nine airports.
The affected airports include Lagos, Port Harcourt, Ilorin, Abuja, Kano, another Abuja site, Maiduguri, Sokoto and Wukari.
“These upgrades will enhance both communication clarity and operational efficiency at these airports,” he added.
Keyamo further announced that President Bola Tinubu has approved the upgrade and rollout of biometric-enabled e-gates at all international airports.
He said the system will fast-track passenger clearance, reduce congestion, and improve overall travel experience for Nigerians and foreign visitors.
“We now have approval for biometric-enabled e-gates to fast-track passenger processing in all our international airports,” he said.
The minister affirmed that the newly approved projects reflect the President’s commitment to modernising aviation facilities across the country, improving operational standards and strengthening safety compliance in line with global best practices.
NAN
