The Economic Community of West African States resolution has led the Federal Government to extend the ban on commercial flights from the Niger Republic to Nigeria and from Nigeria to the country’s northern neighbour.
This resolution was put forth by ECOWAS in response to the events in Niger Republic on July 26, 2023, when the democratically elected President, Mohamed Bazoum, was ousted in a coup and replaced by the military junta led by General Abdourrahamane Tchiani.
This directive (Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) was contained in a letter titled: ECOWAS Restriction on the Republic of Nigeria, from the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) Aeronautical Information Services dated February 2, 2024 and signed by the Director of Air Traffic Services, Tayo John, on behalf of the agency’s Managing Director and Chief Executive.
The directive stated, “By ECOWAS resolutions, all commercial flights from Niger to Nigeria, or from Nigeria to Niger, or from Niger overflying Nigeria, or any state overflying Nigeria to Niger are suspended.”
It added that “These restrictions do not affect: overflight aircraft through Niger airspace; aircraft in a state of emergency and special flights.”
It disclosed further that “special flights are to obtain authorisation from the permanent secretary, Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace.”
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from reporter.
