The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has conducted a high-level Aircraft Emergency Tabletop Exercise at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, to test preparedness, enhance coordination, and reinforce stakeholder readiness for aeronautical emergencies.
The exercise, which simulated a realistic aircraft emergency, brought together key agencies including the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Department of State Services (DSS), Federal Fire Service (FFS), Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Lagos State Ambulance Service (LASAMBUS), Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and the Nigerian Police Force.
Declaring the event open, NAMA’s Director of Air Traffic Services, Mr. John Tayo, represented by General Manager of Search and Rescue (SAR), Mr. Sunday Iwalaiye, stressed the importance of inter-agency synergy and understanding of roles in managing emergencies. “Search and rescue is everybody’s business. In remote areas, local residents often become the first responders,” he said.
The exercise was structured into two key sessions: one focused on outlining the responsibilities of each SAR unit, and the other on coordinated group response activities. According to Tayo, clearly defining agency roles is crucial for effective collaboration in any aeronautical emergency.
NCAA’s representative, Alhaji Safo Baba Jiya, reiterated that “Safety is paramount,” urging all participants to take the learning seriously. MMIA Quality Assurance Manager, Mr. Onohwoakpo Chris, highlighted the necessity of preparing for undesired but possible events.
NEMA’s Lagos SAR Head, Mrs. Ibitayo Adenike, noted that aviation disasters often strike without warning and commended the exercise for helping identify gaps and enhance joint response capacity. From LASEMA, Engr. Jamin Olayinka Salami stressed that while training is essential, greater emphasis must be placed on disaster prevention.
Search Mission Coordinator at MMIA, Mr. Igberaese David, explained that the exercise is part of an ongoing collaboration between NAMA, NEMA, and NIMASA. “Our goal is to rescue the greatest number of people in the shortest time. ICAO mandates a 24-hour SAR watch, and we must be ready,” he said.
The exercise climaxed with a live simulation, followed by a comprehensive debrief to refine strategies and strengthen inter-agency coordination. Stakeholders left with a renewed commitment to ongoing drills and building a more robust emergency response framework that meets both national and international aviation safety standards.
