Minister of Transport and Aviation, Leonard Balogun Koroma said the gathering of the Air Navigation Service Providers from the cardinal corners of Africa in Freetown was a testimony to the preparedness of the Roberts Flight Information Region to move from doldrums and joins the family of Air Navigation Services Providers.

“The important role of Air Navigation Services is one that is critical to the implementation of aviation safety. No doubt that the president of the council Dr. Allieu continues to demonstrate his interest in ensuring that the objectives of addressing the challenges faced by the African-Indian Ocean (AFI) Region in improving safety and efficiency of Air Navigation Services are addressed.” Balogun Koroma stated.

Regional Director, Western and Central Africa, Mam Sait Jallow stated that member states are committed in meeting the obligations under the Chicago Convention, and that collectively they can address challenges faced by national civil aviation system through collective and active collaboration at regional and international levels.

Sait Jallow mentioned that the aim of ICAO as in accordance with article 44 of the convention on international civil aviation are to develop the principles and techniques of international air navigation and foster the planning and development of international air transport.

He further stated “ICAO ensures the safe and orderly growth of international civil aviation throughout the world, by developing and maintaining standards and recommended practices as well as relevant procedures and guidance materials.”

Chairman, Board of Director Civil Aviation Authorities Sierra Leone, Captain Victor Spaine stated that the meeting would be a boost to the country civil aviation policy and that the country happened to be coming from the cold, adding that it a good opportunity for them to try and match up with both regional and international standard.