…says it would revolutionize the aerospace ecosystem
The federal government has said that the integration of advanced drone technology-NavAid drone in the aviation industry will enhance safety, streamline operations, reduce costs, and pave the way for a more sustainable future of the sector.
The minister of aviation and aerospace development, Festus Keyamo, stated this at a workshop on ‘Navaid Drone; advancement in air navigation and safety’ in Abuja on Thursday, adding that air navigation and safety have always been the cornerstone of the aviation industry.
To this end, Keyamo said the need for cutting-edge drone technology has become imperative as air traffic continues to grow. Hence, the need for innovative, efficient, and reliable solutions arises.
Represented by the director of air safety in the aviation ministry, Mr. Chukwu Michael, Keyamo said,” Today, we stand at the forefront of a new era in aerospace, where cutting-edge technologies like the NavAid drones are revolutionizing how we approach air navigation, safety, and operational efficiency.”
According to the Minister, the work shop is designed to provide players in air navigation a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in air navigation and how the integration of advanced drone technology is transforming the industry.
The Minister urged participants to use the opportunity to learn, collaborate, and envision the future of aerospace together. While noting that
the adoption of advanced navigation and air safety technologies aligns with several priority areas under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration in Nigeria. These priorities typically focus on economic growth, infrastructure development, security, and technological advancement.
He commended the Nigeria Airspace Management Agency and partners: LIVIASOFT AND COLIBREX for their vision and leadership in convening the groundbreaking event together.
“Let us seize this opportunity to engage meaningfully with stakeholders and lay the foundation for a stronger, more innovative Nigeria,” said Keyamo.
The Managing Director/Chief Executive, Nigeria Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Engr Farouk Ahmed Umar, in his remarks, explained that air navigation and safety are the cornerstones of a robust and reliable aviation sector.
He also said that as Nigeria continues to experience rapid growth in air traffic, urbanization, and economic development, the need for efficient, safe, and sustainable air navigation systems has never been more critical.
“The safety of passengers, crew, and aircraft, as well as the seamless operation of the airspace, are paramount to maintaining Nigeria’s position as a leader in Africa’s aviation industry.
“In this era of technological advancement, traditional methods of air navigation and safety management are being complemented̶and in some cases, replaced by innovative solutions that offer greater precision, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. One such innovation is the NavAid drone, a cutting-edge technology that is revolutionizing the aerospace ecosystem.”
Engr Umar affirmed that by leveraging the technology, Nigeria can address key challenges in its aviation sector, including improved safety, enhanced efficiency, sustainability, and capacity building.
The President, Livia Soft, Bobga Danjuma, for his part describing the onboarding elements of NavAid drone, explained that the navigational aspect of using drones to do the navigation is cheaper and easier to maintain.
“Within a couple of weeks, someone can fly this drone and be able to control it, even with strong winds. So, the barrier to entry using NavAid drones is very, very low. That is why this innovation is good for Nigeria. It’s good for Africa.
“We’re glad we’re being part of that now. As you see, we’re going to be the lead in Africa.
We’ve had several here today. Reducing cost and reducing carbon emissions.
“With this drone, you’re not putting anyone at risk. So, that’s one extra benefit. While that craft is flying, because the cost is high, that means expenditure on other key projects would have to be prioritized.
“But with drone, because the cost is less, you don’t even need CAPEX, capital expenditure. You use your operational expenditure to do that. It makes it much, much easier,” explained Danjuma.
