Keyamo Seeks Partnership with French Firm on Infrastructure

The collaboration between Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, and the French company Thales aims to enhance the radar systems within Nigeria’s aviation sector. Thales, a leading global provider of air surveillance radar, has a track record of supplying radar installations to major international airports such as London Heathrow and Charles de Gaulle. Keyamo, accompanied by his team, expressed his dedication to procuring state-of-the-art radar technology during the visit to Thales’ headquarters in Rouen-Ymare, France.

Lionel DE Castellane, the Vice President of Thales overseeing the Civil Radars Segment, emphasized the urgent need for the radar system upgrade, particularly at major Nigerian airports. He highlighted the ongoing Total Radar Coverage of Nigeria project and the necessity for modernization and enhancements in radar technology. Notable progress was reported on the TRACON project, with phase 1 being 80% complete and set for full completion by May 2024. Discussions on financing arrangements for the second and third phases are underway, with Thales securing a substantial loan facility and support from the French Guarantee Agency and Commerzbank Group, a German financial institution.

Thales has extended support to the Nigerian government for the modernization efforts. Castellane assured that they are ready to formalize the financing arrangements as soon as the Nigerian government gives the go-ahead, with the Commerzbank director in France prepared to travel to Nigeria for the formalities. The collaboration represents a significant step towards improving the radar capabilities and infrastructure within Nigeria’s aviation sector.