NAMA deploys mobile control tower at Lagos airport after fire incident

The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has deployed a Mobile Control Tower at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, in a swift response to the recent fire incident that affected critical air-ground communication infrastructure at the old terminal.

Speaking during an on-site inspection, the Director of Safety Electronics and Engineering Services, Engr. Terese Ihenacho, described the deployment as a major operational milestone, underscoring the agency’s commitment to maintaining safe and efficient air navigation services at Nigeria’s busiest aviation hub.

She commended NAMA personnel for their technical expertise and dedication, noting that their efforts ensured the timely delivery and readiness of the facility.

“As you can see, the Mobile Tower is fully operational and serviceable. All necessary test runs have been successfully completed, and air traffic controllers are ready to commence operations at any moment,” she said.

Ihenacho disclosed that the tower had been reconfigured to meet local operational demands, incorporating innovations to enhance efficiency and safety, including the integration of a smart strip system alongside the conventional manual system.

“The way it was manufactured is not the way we are using it. We have restructured it to suit our local peculiarities. There is now seamless connectivity to Centrex and TRACON, which did not exist before. This is part of our innovation to meet global standards,” she added.

In a further move to strengthen operational redundancy, the agency has concluded plans to deploy a second Mobile Control Tower to service Runway 18R.

However, she noted that the siting of the additional tower would be determined in collaboration with key stakeholders, including the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), and air traffic controllers, to ensure optimal safety positioning.

Ihenacho explained that the deployment forms part of NAMA’s broader contingency strategy designed to mitigate disruptions arising from infrastructure upgrades or environmental challenges affecting the main control tower.

She added that supporting infrastructure at the site includes solar-powered lighting, reinforced structural systems, additional power supply, and comprehensive CCTV security coverage.

The director also highlighted ongoing efforts to improve the welfare and working conditions of personnel at the temporary facility, noting that discussions are underway to provide essential amenities.

She praised NAMA staff for their commitment, describing them as “heroes” who worked under challenging conditions to restore operational stability, and reaffirmed the agency’s dedication to ensuring the safety and efficiency of Nigeria’s airspace.