NATCA HOLDS 54TH AGM, REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO SAFER, SMARTER AIRSPACE
By: Safiya Abdulrahim Dabban
The Nigerian Air Traffic Controllers’ Association (NATCA) today successfully held its 54th Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Abuja, reaffirming its commitment to building a safer, more efficient, and technology-driven Nigerian airspace.
The two-day event, which began on October 21, 2025, brought together air traffic management professionals, aviation regulators, service providers, and key stakeholders from across the country and beyond.
This year’s theme, “The Human Edge: Capacity Building in the Next Generation Air Traffic Management,” focused on strengthening human capacity as aviation embraces automation and artificial intelligence.
Speaking at the opening session, NATCA President, said the theme highlights the crucial role of human expertise in maintaining safety in an era of technological transformation. He noted that while automation enhances efficiency, the human controller’s judgment and professionalism remain the cornerstone of air traffic safety.
Ilemona commended the Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Engr. Ahmed Farouk, and the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, for their consistent support in promoting aviation safety and innovation.
He emphasized that the AGM served as a platform for members to review the nation’s readiness for next-generation air traffic management technologies and to strengthen professional development through dialogue, policy discussions, and technical sessions.
The event featured technical paper presentations, panel discussions, training workshops, and exhibitions, with participation from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), and international partners such as ICAO, IFATCA, and the U.S. ATS.
Highlights of the AGM included awards recognizing outstanding contributions to air traffic management and safety, alongside renewed calls for continuous training and innovation to ensure Nigeria remains at the forefront of global aviation standards.