NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Aviation: Keyamo urges FAAN board to prioritise infrastructure

Aviation: Keyamo urges FAAN board to prioritise infrastructure

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By Gabriel Agbeja

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, has advised newly inaugurated members of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) Governing Board to prioritise infrastructure development at the nation’s airports.

Keyamo gave the charge while inaugurating the board on Wednesday in Abuja.

He emphasised that modernising airport infrastructure was essential to bringing Nigeria’s airports up to world-class standards in line with international best practices.

According to the minister, such efforts will significantly enhance passenger experience, safety, and overall security in the aviation sector.

“This occasion marks not just a change in leadership but also a renewed commitment to the lofty ideals of service, safety, and progress within our aviation sector.

“Aviation is a global industry. We must foster partnerships with other governmental and non-governmental agencies, international organisations, and the private sector to grow our aviation economy.

“Together, let us work toward elevating aviation standards, improving connectivity, and fostering economic growth. As you embark on this new chapter, remember, the eyes of the nation are upon you,” he said.

Keyamo also stressed that passengers should remain the focus of all operations, urging the board to prioritise service delivery, customer satisfaction, and overall airport experience.

He encouraged close collaboration with other agencies to support the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.

Speaking at the event, Dr Umar Ganduje, Chairman of the newly inaugurated FAAN Board, pledged that the board would promote effective institutional governance and support the minister’s efforts to advance the aviation sector.

“We will not exceed our boundaries. I know this is a common issue between boards, executive management, and the ministry.

“We are fully conscious of this and will ensure strict compliance with regulatory limits.

“We will focus on meeting rising passenger expectations, ensuring satisfaction, and maintaining functional infrastructure,” Ganduje said.

FAAN Managing Director, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, also spoke at the ceremony.

She lauded Ganduje’s leadership qualities, saying they made him a fitting choice for the role of board chairman.

Kuku assured that FAAN would work closely with the board to strengthen institutional governance.

She also appealed to President Bola Tinubu to continue supporting FAAN with resources to further improve the passenger experience at Nigeria’s airports.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the newly inaugurated FAAN board consists of eight members. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ifeyinwa Okonkwo/Abiemwense Moru

Why Nigeria should have airport-driven urban areas – Consultant

Why Nigeria should have airport-driven urban areas – Consultant

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By Itohan Abara-Laserian
An aviation security consultant, retired Group Capt. John Ojikutu, has identified unstable policies as a hindrance to having aerotropolis in Nigeria’s major airports.
Ojikutu made the observation in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Lagos.
Aerotropolis is a concept where an airport’s surrounding area develops into a thriving urban centre, with businesses, residential areas and transport networks all interconnected and optimised around the airport.
Essentially, it is an airport-driven urban area with a focus on aviation-linked businesses and activities.
According to Ojikutu, aerotropolis has been in the plan of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) for over 20 years but faced some challenges.
NAN reports that integration of aerotropolis into an airport’s master plan is expected to strengthen the airport’s role as a hub for economic activities and development.
According to him, the Murtala Muhammed Airport (MMA) has a master plan which was distorted.
“The international passengers’ terminals are expected to be four but only two are still struggling with private aircraft operators.
“Surrounding the airport are public houses and buildings on the lands approved by government for the airport development.
“The MMA in particular cannot find land on the opposite side of the airport for any development.
“All the services are all on one side – beginning with the international and domestic terminals, airline and private operators’ hangers, ground handling services, fuel marketers, and military barracks among others,” he said.
Ojikutu said that most of airports’ encroached lands could have gone for parks, recreational areas, hotels and shopping malls, among others.
“Aerotropolis has been in the plan of FAAN for more than 20 years but unstable policies and personal interest of those in the administration and the management of the agencies made it difficult.
“The Privatisation, Commercialisation and Concession Act of 2000 has never been brought back to the table for any other to have a taste after the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two (MMA2),” he added.
On airport security, Ojikutu said that having more than six government security agencies working in airports was hindering effective collaboration.
“There can be no effective collaboration without a unified command and control.
“Having over six government security agencies working in the airports create multiple problems that make none to be in control.” (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Ijeoma Popoola
FAAN holds airport concessionaires’ engagement, plans cashless payments

FAAN holds airport concessionaires’ engagement, plans cashless payments

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By Itohan Abara-Laserian

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) is finalising automation of payment processes at airports nationwide starting with Murtala Muhammed International Airport.

The Managing Director of FAAN, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, gave the assurance on Monday in Lagos.

Kuku spoke at FAAN’s Directorate of Commercial and Business Development Stakeholder Engagement.

The engagement had the theme: “Strengthening Partnerships for Sustainable Growth and Development”.

Kuku emphasised the need for Electronic Cash Register (ECR) devices for payments and automation of toll gates and parking facilities to enhance transparency and accountability.

“Today, the environment is slightly porous as people are just using physical ID cards and identification to pass through.

“We are actually going to be integrating that with BVN and NIN and, of course, biometrics on the domestic side,” she said.

Kuku said that the authority was commitment to providing smart airports and processes for business partners.

She emphasised the need for concessionaires to make timely payments and adhere to contract terms.

Kuku expressed dissatisfaction at the presence of tankers, which did not have any business at the airport area.

She asked that they should vacate the area or be sanctioned.

“We are going to be taking very drastic actions because it is obnoxious for an airport environment.

“I have realised that a lot of these tankers do not belong to those who operate in our environment.”

Kuku said there was the need to update and categorise concessionaires to address fee discrepancies.

She identified four major categories based on business type, retail mix and offerings to ensure fair and transparent fee structures.

The Director of Commercial and Business Development, FAAN, Ms Adebola Agunbiade, spoke on FAAN’s revenue scorecard for 2024.

Agunbiade said that FAAN generated 92 per cent of revenue from aeronautics and eight per cent from non-aeronautics.

“This is not very good for us. International standard is 55 per cent aeronautical revenue and 45 per cent non-aeronautical, and we are very far from that.

“All of the initiatives that we have come up with and keep coming up with are to help us to drive our non-aeronautic businesses.

“That is why you all are here. We are hoping that we will get your support to be able to achieve this,” she said.

She said that FAAN would review its tariffs, adding that it had ‘suffered a lot from obsolete charges’.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that stakeholders in catering, car hiring, retailing and indoor advertising, among others, were present at the event. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abdulfatai Beki/Ijeoma Popoola

Direct flights from Abuja to London Heathrow begin Oct. 26 – Keyamo

Direct flights from Abuja to London Heathrow begin Oct. 26 – Keyamo

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By Gabriel Agbeja

Mr Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, says Air Peace will begin direct flights to London Heathrow Airport from Abuja on Oct. 26.

Keyamo made this known in Abuja on Sunday in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Communications, Mr Tunde Moshood.

According to him, the landmark achievement follows sustained diplomatic efforts by the Federal Government to enforce reciprocity in international air travel agreements.

The minister said that the breakthrough was the result of a strongly worded letter from the ministry dated Aug. 1, 2024, to the UK Secretary of State for Transport, Rt. Hon. Louise Haigh.

In the correspondence, Keyamo demanded the immediate allocation of landing slots at Heathrow for Air Peace or risk reciprocal action.

The reciprocal action, he said, included a potential review of British Airways and Virgin Atlantic’s access to Lagos and Abuja airports.

He reiterated that Nigeria was only asserting its rights under the Bilateral Air Services Agreement between both nations which guarantees reciprocal access and fair treatment for designated flag carriers.

He said after months of negotiations and firm diplomatic engagement, the UK authorities acceded to Nigeria’s demand, granting Air Peace the long-awaited Heathrow slot.

“This is not just a win for Air Peace, but a significant diplomatic milestone for Nigeria.

“It sends a clear message that we are serious about enforcing the terms of our bilateral agreements and protecting the commercial interests of our indigenous carriers,” the minister said.

Keyamo further emphasised that the move aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda which places high priority on creating an enabling environment for Nigerian businesses to thrive globally.

He said that Air Peace had earlier launched its inaugural direct flight from Lagos to London Gatwick Airport in March 2024, marking its entry into the highly competitive UK aviation market.

According to him, with the move to Heathrow, one of the world’s busiest and most prestigious airports, the airline is expected to significantly expand its international footprint and provide Nigerian travellers with greater convenience and connectivity.

“This development marks a new chapter in Nigeria-UK aviation relations and sets a precedence for stronger enforcement of bilateral agreements to benefit national carriers,” Keyamo added. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Esenvosa Izah/Mufutau Ojo

Nigeria’s first female fighter pilot wins top awards in Ghana

Nigeria’s first female fighter pilot wins top awards in Ghana

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By Sumaila Ogbaje

Flt.-Lt. Kafayat Sanni, Nigeria’s first female fighter pilot, has once again made history at the prestigious Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College (GAFCSC), Accra.

Sanni emerged as the Best Allied Student and winning the Best Assistant Commandant Paper award at GAFCSC.

The Director of Public Relations and Information of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, made this known on Saturday in Abuja.

Ejodame said the awards were presented on Friday, during the College graduation ceremony, attended by top military officials and dignitaries from across Africa.

He said that Sanni’s impressive records first made headlines in 2019 when she was decorated as the Nigerian Air Force’s (NAF) first female fighter pilot after completing her pilot training in the U.S.

“Since then, she has flown the Alpha Jet as well as undertaken training sorties on the Super Mushshak as a prolific instructor pilot, producing and mentoring younger pilots for the NAF.

“Her outstanding performance at GAFCSC not only symbolises personal excellence and resilience but also underscores Nigeria’s growing leadership in regional defence and commitment to gender inclusion in the armed forces.

“This remarkable achievement further reflects the Nigerian Air Force’s strategic investment in human capital development under the visionary leadership of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa

Aviation minister’s aide seeks collaboration for better intra-African connectivity

Aviation minister’s aide seeks collaboration for better intra-African connectivity

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By Gabriel Agbeja

Mr Obafemi Bajomo, Senior Special Adviser to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development on Foreign Direct Investments and Capital Improvement Programmes, says African countries should strengthen collaboration toward better intra-African connectivity.

Bajomo said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.

According to him, by promoting intra-African connectivity, African countries can unlock their economic potentials, improve living standards and foster a more integrated and prosperous continent.

He urged African leaders to deepen efforts toward the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), African Union`s Agenda 2063, Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), and infrastructure development projects to achieve the feat.

Bajomo commended efforts of the Nigeria Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, to advance intra- Africa connectivity to ensure a robust and resilient future for Nigeria and African region in general.

“At the recently concluded AviaDev Africa Conference in Zanzibar, Tanzania, Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace emerged as a leading voice in the urgent call for enhanced intra-African air connectivity.

“His additional function as the current Chairman of the Banjul Accord Group (BAG) found global resonance through a newly unveiled report by Brazilian aerospace manufacturer, Embraer.

“The report is titled “Connecting Africa: Unlocking Africa’s Intra-Regional Connectivity Potential.

“Launched on June 12, the report provides a compelling data-backed argument for rethinking the status quo of Africa’s fragmented aviation landscape,“ he said.

Bajomo said that the report amplified the long-standing campaign of Keyamo, whose vision for a connected Africa now aligned with both global industry players and empirical economic projections.

“Drawing upon clear statistics and strategic analysis, Embraer’s findings make the case for deploying right-sized aircraft and creating new regional air corridors to bridge the vast distances that have historically divided African economies.

“The report quoted Keyamo as saying that the potential of intra-African connectivity is vast, and it is within our collective power to unlock new markets, build new regional hubs, and create a more integrated continent.

“By working together, we can foster economic growth, promote trade and improve the lives of millions of Africans through better connectivity,” he said.

Bajomo said that the report revealed that Africa contributed a paltry 2.1 per cent of global air passenger and cargo traffic despite being home to 18 per cent of the world’s population.

The minister’s aide said that the mismatch, which was highlighted by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and cited in the report, pointed to a massive untapped opportunity in Africa.

He said that the Embraer study underscored the importance of small and medium-sized aircraft in catalysing growth in underutilised routes and demonstrated how new services could stimulate demand up to 80 per cent.

He said that Keyamo had tirelessly advocated for the liberalisation of African airspace, the development of regional hubs and the fast-tracking of Bilateral Air Service Agreements (BASAs).

“His tenure has also seen increasing collaboration with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) like Embraer, and policy thrusts aimed at fleet modernisation, aviation infrastructure renewal, and route expansion—objectives squarely mirrored in Embraer’s recommendations.

“The Embraer report identifies 45 intra-African routes currently unserved by direct flights, many of which could support multiple weekly frequencies using 100-seat aircraft like the E-Jet E2.

“Such right-sized aircraft offer cost-efficiency and flexibility, aligning with the minister’s argument that African airlines must rethink operational models to better match passenger demand and reduce operational costs,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman

Air Peace gets Heathrow grant, begins Abuja-London flight Oct. 26

Air Peace gets Heathrow grant, begins Abuja-London flight Oct. 26

288 total views today

 

 

By Itohan Abara-Laserian

 

 

 

Air Peace Airline has announced the commencement of Abuja to Heathrow Airport in London on Oct. 26 after receiving grant from the British authority.

 

The Chairman of the airline, Dr Allen Onyema, made the announcement at a news conference on Wednesday in Lagos.

 

Onyema disclosed that the grant was as a result of the confidence the international aviation community has in the airline.

 

He also announced that before the end of the year, the airline would add Congo, Garbon and Brazzaville to its schedule.

 

Onyema said that flights from Abuja to London Heathrow would be four times weekly, with Lagos to London Gatwick three times weekly.

 

He also said there would be direct flights to the Caribbean, particularly Antigua in September, and later, to Barbados.

 

The airline boss assured increased fleet capacity of Boeing 777, wide bodied aircraft acquisition as a result of the dry lease financing, among other new aircraft to match the schedules.

 

According to him, the airline has 36 outrightly purchased aircraft and four on wet lease, with new aircraft expected soon.

 

He assured passengers of on-time services, saying “since May 12, we have posted over 85 per cent on-time performance.

 

“For the new Air Peace you are about to see, we assure our passengers of on-time services and we are upgrading our Customer Service.”

 

On flight delays and cancellations, Onyema said 94 per cent were not caused by the airline but external forces.

 

He identified the causes as: weather, infrastructure, bird strikes, inadequate landing equipment, sunset airports, unruly passengers, animal strikes, among others.

 

He explained that “in the last five years, we recorded 100 bird strikes; this year alone, over 30 bird strikes, these strikes will affect other flights scheduled for that day.

 

“We do not cancel for the fun of it, we cancel when necessary”, he said.

 

Onyema noted that the airline has international validations because of its safety measures.

 

He also announced that the airline would restart the China route soon, as well as other regional and international routes.

 

He commended President Bola Tinubu and the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, for ensuring ease of doing business in the industry.

 

He added that “the sector had never had it so good, as Nigeria would soon take delivery of dry lease aircraft as a result of the doggedness of the minister.”

 

He expressed the hope that Nigerians would patronise and support the airline.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu

NAMA conducts aircraft emergency response exercise

NAMA conducts aircraft emergency response exercise

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By Itohan Abara-Laserian

The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has held an Aircraft Emergency Tabletop Exercise to educate aviation stakeholders on managing aircraft emergencies and disaster situations.

The exercise took place at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), gathering key players in emergency management and Search and Rescue (SAR) from various aviation agencies.

Director of Air Traffic Services at NAMA, Mr John Tayo, urged participants to take the exercise seriously for better preparedness during real emergencies.

Tayo was represented at the event by the General Manager of NAMA’s SAR Unit, Mr Sunday Iwalaiye.

He stressed that Search and Rescue is a shared responsibility and organised the event into two sessions for greater effectiveness and engagement.

“To ensure success, we separated the stakeholders’ meeting from the actual aircraft emergency exercise.

“We are categorising Search and Rescue responsibilities into groups to define each agency’s specific role clearly,” Tayo said.

He noted that a SAR incident involving aircraft qualifies as an aeronautical emergency, making clarity of roles crucial for efficiency.

Tayo also urged the media to take the event seriously and ensure wide public coverage.

Regional General Manager, South-West at FAAN, Mr Olatokunbo Arewa, praised the coordinators for organising the valuable training session.

“This is worth supporting. No one wants emergencies, but we must be prepared. Stakeholders must take note and know their duties,” he said.

Alh. Safo Jiya from the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) highlighted the critical role of safety in all aviation activities.

“Safety is our top priority at NCAA. We’re here to learn and remain focused on our responsibilities,” he stated.

Mr Chris Onohwoakpo, Quality Assurance Manager at MMIA, reiterated the need for readiness in case of unexpected emergencies.

“Though we don’t wish for disasters, we must know how to handle them effectively when they occur,” he said.

Mrs Adenike Ibitayo, Head of SAR at NEMA Lagos, noted that the most recent global aviation disaster was also unforeseen.

“We have representatives from nearly all airlines here. Let’s collaborate, spot weaknesses, and improve our emergency response,” she urged.

Mr Jamin Salami of LASEMA said preventing disasters was just as vital as responding to them, to improve agency preparedness.

Search Mission Coordinator at MMIA, Mr David Igberaese, who led the exercise, said NAMA routinely conducts joint drills with NEMA.

According to him, these collaborations aim to enhance coordination and save the highest number of lives in the shortest possible time.

“ICAO mandates a 24-hour watch for all SAR operations. Since some emergencies occur in remote areas, locals — like farmers — often serve as the first responders,” he noted.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the highlight of the event was a simulated SAR scenario followed by a debriefing session.

Agencies present included the Nigeria Customs Service, Immigration Service, DSS, FRSC, Fire Service, NEMA, LASEMA, and the Nigerian Police.

Also present were the Airline Operators of Nigeria and the Lagos State Ambulance Services, reinforcing inter-agency collaboration. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Esenvosa Izah/Kamal Tayo Oropo

Ebonyi celebrates landing of 1st commercial flight

Ebonyi celebrates landing of 1st commercial flight

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By Christian Ogbonna

The Ebonyi Government has welcomed its first commercial flight at Wilberforce Chuba Okadigbo Airport, located in Onueke, Ezza-South Local Government Area of the state.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the aircraft arrived from Abuja on Friday at 10:30 a.m. with 35 passengers aboard.

The flight was operated by United Nigeria Airlines, bearing the registration number 5N-8WV.

One of the passengers, Prof. Chigozie Ogbu, former Deputy Governor, described the flight as a major milestone for the state.

“This is the first flight, and I’m fortunate to be among those who landed here,” he said.

He praised the runway, saying it is among the best in Nigeria, and the landing was as smooth as anywhere globally.

Another passenger, Emmanuel Nwafor, said the event fulfilled a long-standing dream for the people of Ebonyi.

“History has been made today. I’m honoured to witness what God has done for our dear state,” Nwafor added.

He described the flight experience as flawless, with no turbulence, and a perfect take-off and landing.

Chief Elias Mbam, former chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Commission, also flew in on the inaugural flight.

He expressed joy over the launch of commercial operations and commended the state government for the achievement.

Mbam urged for improved frequency of flights and enhancement of facilities at the airport.

The State Commissioner for Aviation and Transport Technology, Mrs Ngozi Obichukwu, praised Gov. Francis Nwifuru for making the operations possible. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Modupe Adeloye/Kamal Tayo Oropo

Aviation: NCAA urges journalists to prioritise accurate reporting

Aviation: NCAA urges journalists to prioritise accurate reporting

301 total views today

By Gabriel Agbeja

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) on Wednesday in Abuja urged Nigerian journalists to intensify efforts toward accurate reportage of any developments in the aviation industry.

Mrs Uju Mbamadu, NCAA Assistant General Manager of the Public Relations Department, gave the advice during her remarks at a workshop titled “The Role of Media on Initiatives and Innovation to Improve Aviation Safety and Regulation.”

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the workshop was the second edition organised by the NCAA for the Abuja Transport and Aviation Correspondents’ Association (ATACA).

According to Mbamadu, accurate reporting is essential for maintaining the highest levels of safety, efficiency, and compliance in aviation.

“As media professionals, your ability to accurately report on aviation matters begins with a solid grasp of the NCAA’s mandate.

“From the first edition, we have observed positive changes in news reporting from the aviation sector. Yes, we have.

“That’s why we are motivated to continue this advocacy for accuracy in news writing this year. We commend your relationship with us,” she said.

Ms. Chioma Ubibi, the workshop facilitator, explained that NCAA operated through several directorates, each playing a unique and critical role in aviation regulation.

She listed NCAA’s core responsibilities to include safety oversight, economic regulation, consumer protection, and security collaboration.

Ubibi said the NCAA organisational structure comprised all the directorates known as the internal structure.

“The NCAA is empowered by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Act, 2022, and operates in line with the Chicago Convention of 1944 and the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs).

“The NCAA is a parastatal under the Federal Ministry of Aviation but maintains functional and administrative autonomy in carrying out its regulatory responsibilities.

“Its directorates include Airworthiness Standards; Operations, Licensing and Training; Aerodrome and Airspace Standards; Air Transport Regulation; and Aviation Security.

“Other directorates are Public Affairs and Consumer Protection; Finance and Accounts; Human Resources and Administration; Corporate Services; Legal Services/Company Secretary; and Special Duties.”

She also urged journalists to be careful in their choice of headlines when writing any aviation story.

“This will help journalists avoid sensationalism and foster intelligent engagement with NCAA’s regulatory actions,” she added.

Speaking at the workshop, the NCAA Media Consultant, Mr Toni Ukachukwu, said the event was organised to boost journalists’ knowledge of aviation to improve reportage.

According to him, understanding the NCAA structure will help prevent misreporting or panic narratives.

He emphasised that understanding the structure would help prevent misreporting or panic narratives.

Ukachukwu encouraged participants to reflect on their role as partners in accurate public communication.

“I want to reiterate that the NCAA’s authority is multi-dimensional, safety, economic regulation, and consumer rights,” he said.(NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

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