FG Approves Major VHF Radio Upgrade To Boost Air Safety Across Airports

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved fresh upgrades to remote-controlled Very High Frequency radio systems at Lagos, Abuja, and seven other airports to improve communication reliability and strengthen flight safety. Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo announced the decision in Abuja after Wednesday’s council meeting.

Okay News reports that the VHF systems—used for communication between pilots and air traffic control—will be replaced or enhanced in Lagos, Port Harcourt, Ilorin, Abuja, Kano, Maiduguri, Sokoto, Wukari, and an additional Abuja site. Keyamo said the upgrades are part of the administration’s plan to modernise aviation infrastructure and reduce communication gaps during critical flight phases.

He added that the council also approved an aeronautical frequency monitoring and interference-detection system to improve communication integrity. The system is expected to minimise the risk of miscommunication between aircraft and ground controllers.

Keyamo said other approvals include advanced surface-movement guidance systems and biometric e-gates for all international airports, aimed at speeding up passenger checks and improving overall airport efficiency.

In recent months, the council has approved several major projects for Nigeria’s airports. In August, it approved N987 billion for nationwide upgrades, including N712.26 billion for a full rebuild of Lagos’ Terminal One at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport. The overhaul will modernise the 1979 structure, expand the aircraft apron, rebuild key sections, and add new access roads and a passenger bridge to ease terminal flow.

The government said the ongoing upgrades are designed to deliver safer, more efficient, and higher-quality airport services nationwide.