The federal government has extended the suspension of commercial flights between Niger Republic and Nigeria, following the ousting of Niger’s elected President, Mohamed Bazoum, in a coup on July 26, 2023. The military junta led by General Abdourrahamane Tchiani replaced him, prompting Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) resolutions against Niger Republic.
Under these resolutions, commercial flights from Niger to Nigeria, and vice versa, as well as flights overflying Nigerian airspace from Niger or any Nigerian state to Niger, are suspended. This directive, outlined in a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) Aeronautical Information Services on February 2, 2024, aims to comply with ECOWAS decisions.
Exceptions to the suspension include overflight aircraft, aircraft in emergencies, and special flights, subject to authorization from the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace.
The NOTAM renewal reflects ongoing adherence to these restrictions. Concerns have been raised that the closure of airspace by Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali could lead to retaliatory measures. This could significantly impact airlines operating between Nigeria and Southern Africa, affecting revenue streams and creating operational challenges for aviation agencies like NAMA.
Matthew Pwajok, former Acting Managing Director of NAMA, highlighted potential consequences, including extended flight durations and loss of revenue from overflight charges. The closure of airspace by these countries would disrupt flight routes and connectivity, affecting both airlines and aviation agencies.
