The Federal Government of Nigeria has extended the suspension of commercial flights between Niger Republic and Nigeria, as well as flights traversing the northern border between the two countries. This decision aligns with resolutions put forth by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) following the military coup in Niger Republic on July 26, 2023, which removed President Mohamed Bazoum and installed General Abdourrahamane Tchiani.
Under this directive, commercial flights from Niger to Nigeria, vice versa, or those crossing Nigerian airspace from any Nigerian state to Niger are suspended. This Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) was communicated through a letter titled “ECOWAS Restriction on the Republic of Nigeria” from the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) Aeronautical Information Services. The letter, 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, outlined these restrictions.
Exceptions to the suspension include overflight aircraft passing through Niger’s airspace, aircraft experiencing emergencies, and special flights. Special flights must obtain authorization from the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace.
