As the global aviation community marks World Aeronautical Information Services Day (WAISD), the Aeronautical Information Management Association of Nigeria (AIMAN) has appealed to the Federal Government to review its policy on the 50% deduction from aviation agencies’ Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).
Speaking on the 2025 WAISD theme, “Safeguarding the Skies: The Vital Role of Secured Aeronautical Information in Aviation Safety,” AIMAN President, Dr. Ibrahim Audu, said the current funding policy has constrained critical investments in infrastructure, including the replacement of obsolete systems and delayed the long-overdue automation of Aeronautical Information Services (AIS).
He emphasized that Nigeria’s AIS infrastructure is falling behind that of neighboring countries, warning that this could compromise aviation safety and efficiency. Dr. Audu noted that full AIS automation would introduce essential tools like the Geographic Information System (GIS), digital NOTAM systems, and automated weather observation — all crucial for delivering accurate, real-time data to pilots and air traffic controllers.
While commending the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) for its efforts in replacing outdated navigation, communication, and surveillance equipment, Dr. Audu stressed that completing the AIS automation process is a pressing national priority.
He also highlighted the association’s recent strides toward professionalizing the field, announcing that a licensing committee led by Mr. Patrick Afatapa has achieved significant progress toward licensing AIS officers.
With Nigeria set to host the International Federation of Aeronautical Information Management Associations (IFAIMA) Conference in 2025, Dr. Audu said this year’s WAISD celebration would be held at station levels nationwide to mobilize support for the upcoming international event. He urged AIMAN members to register and participate fully.
WAISD, first commemorated in 1953, honors the critical role AIS professionals play in aviation safety and air navigation. AIMAN, an affiliate of IFAIMA, remains committed to promoting timely, accurate aeronautical data and ensuring Nigerian skies remain safe and globally compliant.
