ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The Federal Government of Nigeria through the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) resolution, has renewed the suspension of commercial flights from Niger Republic to Nigeria and from Nigeria to the nation’s northern neighbouring country.
This resolution was put forth by ECOWAS in response to the events in Niger Republic on 26 July, 2023, when the democratically elected President, Mohamed Bazoum, was ousted in a coup and replaced by the military junta led by General Abdourrahamane Tchiani.
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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 2 February, 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.
“These restrictions do not affect: overflight aircraft through Niger airspace; aircraft in a state of emergency and special flights.”
“Special flights are to obtain authorisation from the permanent secretary, Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace.”