Nigeria’s Triumph at IFATCA Conference Bolsters Global Aviation Standing
Nigeria achieved a significant milestone in the international aviation arena with the election of three members of the Nigerian Air Traffic Controllers’ Association (NATCA) to key standing committees of the International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers’ Associations (IFATCA). This accomplishment transpired during IFATCA’s 64th Annual Conference, held in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, from April 28 to May 2, 2025. The elected representatives will contribute their expertise to the Constitution and Administration Committee, the Professional and Legal Committee, and the Technical and Operations Committee, impacting crucial aspects of global air traffic control. This achievement underscores Nigeria’s rising prominence in aviation governance and the international recognition of the proficiency of its air traffic controllers.
Ahmad Abba, IFATCA’s Executive Vice President for the Africa and Middle East (AFM) region and Director of Special Duties at the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), emphasized the significance of this triple election, highlighting it as a testament to the global confidence in Nigerian air traffic controllers’ capabilities. Beyond the committee elections, NATCA members also secured positions within high-impact task forces dedicated to advancing policy reform and enhancing aviation safety. These gains align with Nigeria’s broader aviation development objectives, particularly the five-point agenda of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, which aims to establish Nigeria as a leading global aviation hub.
The conference also witnessed the expansion of IFATCA’s reach within the AFM region, with Chad and Congo Brazzaville joining the federation, further solidifying regional cooperation. A crucial development was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between IFATCA and the Fédération des Associations des Contrôleurs Aériens de l’ASECNA (Federation of ASECNA Air Traffic Controllers’ Associations), forging stronger ties and collaborative efforts within the region. This partnership promises to facilitate the exchange of knowledge, best practices, and resources, ultimately contributing to the advancement of air traffic control services across the region.
Abba unveiled the IFATCA AFM Strategic Plan 2025–2027, a roadmap designed to elevate professional development, strengthen institutional capacity, and uphold stringent safety standards within the region. The plan emphasizes regional cooperation and adherence to global best practices, ensuring harmonization and efficiency in air traffic management. By focusing on these core areas, the strategic plan seeks to enhance the safety and efficiency of air navigation services across the Africa and Middle East region.
The next IFATCA AFM regional meeting is scheduled for November 2025 in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, providing a platform for continued collaboration and knowledge sharing among member states. Looking further ahead, Uganda has been selected to host the 2027 IFATCA Annual Conference, marking the return of this prestigious global aviation event to African soil after nearly a decade. This presents a significant opportunity for Africa to showcase its advancements in air traffic management and contribute to the global discourse on aviation safety and efficiency.
Nigeria’s success at the IFATCA conference, coupled with the strategic advancements made within the AFM region, positions Africa as a rising force in global aviation. The election of Nigerian representatives to key IFATCA committees, the expansion of the federation’s membership within the region, and the development of a comprehensive strategic plan demonstrate a commitment to enhancing professionalism, safety, and cooperation in air traffic control. These achievements not only benefit Nigeria and the AFM region but also contribute to the broader goal of ensuring safe and efficient air travel worldwide. The upcoming regional meeting in Zimbabwe and the 2027 annual conference in Uganda will further solidify Africa’s role in shaping the future of global aviation.
