The Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has hailed the partnership between the Ekiti State Government and the Nigerian Airspace Management Authority (NAMA) as a significant collaboration that promises to bring numerous benefits to the state.
Governor Oyebanji made this statement on Friday during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Ekiti State and NAMA at the agency’s headquarters in Ikeja, Lagos.
The Governor who was represented by the secretary to Ekiti State Government Dr Habibat Adubiaro emphasized that the event marks a pivotal moment in the journey toward enhancing the safety, efficiency, and reliability of airspace and air traffic management in the state, particularly as the Ekiti State Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport in Ado-Ekiti nears full operational status. He described the MoU as a testament to the shared commitment of both parties to advancing aviation infrastructure and services in Nigeria.
“The primary objective of this MoU is to foster a collaborative partnership that will lead to effective air traffic management systems and ensure the highest standards of safety for all airspace users,” Governor Oyebanji stated. “We aim to leverage NAMA’s expertise and resources to achieve these goals.”
The Governor expressed confidence that the partnership would boost tourism, facilitate smoother and safer air travel, and, in turn, contribute to economic growth, job creation, and improved connectivity for the people of Ekiti State.
“We are committed to working closely with NAMA to ensure the successful implementation of this MoU, and our collaboration will be guided by mutual respect and transparency,” he added.
Governor Oyebanji concluded by thanking all those who worked tirelessly to make the MoU a reality, acknowledging their dedication and hard work in bringing the partnership to fruition.
Earlier, the Managing Director of the Nigeria Airspace Management Authority (NAMA), Engineer Farouq, represented by the Director of Legal Services & Company Secretary, Mrs. Isemiuhonmon Rita Egba, described the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Ekiti State Government and NAMA as a commitment to uphold the highest standards of quality and performance on both sides. The MoU aims to foster open communication and transparency, embrace credibility and adaptability, and navigate the ever-changing environment of the aviation industry—a key sector that boosts the economy and revenue of any nation.
She further emphasized that the MoU is more than just a contract; it is a symbol of action, cooperation, and shared vision.
“We are not just signing a document; we are making a promise to each other and to our customers. Let us work together to achieve greatness and make this partnership a shining example of collaboration and excellence. It is our belief at the Nigeria Airspace Management Authority that this is just the beginning of better things to come between the Agency and the Ekiti State Government,” she said.
Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Kehinde Ajobiewe, expressed his gratitude to God and to the governor, who has worked tirelessly to ensure that this occasion became a reality.
Among the dignitaries who graced the occasion were the Honorable Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Kehinde Ajobiewe; Technical Adviser to the Governor on Airport Matters, AVM Makinde; Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transportation, Mr. Abulola; and a host of others.”