The National Association of Air Traffic Controllers of Nigeria (NATCA) has asked the Federal government to overhaul the country’s air traffic communication and surveillance infrastructure, saying the its current poor state poses threat to safety.
The association warned that the situation is placing additional pressure on the controllers’ job adding that it may lead to disruptions if the warning is not heeded.
NATCA President, Mr Amos Edino, said at the association’s 55th Annual General Meeting and Conference in Lagos that approvals and procurement announcements by relevant authorities had yet to translate into improved equipment at operational consoles.
He said the association had taken its concerns to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, the National Counterterrorism Centre, the Office of the National Security Adviser and the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) as it submitted a memorandum to the National Assembly on aviation funding reform.
Meanwhile, as parts of efforts to modernise air traffic management , the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) said it has begun the process of procuring the Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) equipment in a bid to also overhaul the Total Radar Coverage of Nigeria (TRACON) to address deficiencies in existing infrastructure and strengthen surveillance capabilities.
Managing Director of the agency, Engr. Ahmed Farouk, represented by the Director of Air Traffic Services, Mr John Tayo, also disclosed that the agency has commenced overseas training programme for its staff.
He said the agency would engage the services of the Agency for Aerial Navigation Safety in Africa and Madagascar (ASECNA) for technical assistance on manning communication equipment.
On personnel training, Farouk disclosed that the first batch of the agency’s overseas training programme had commenced, adding that NAMA had implemented the Post-Licence Allowance to replace the existing Post-Ratings Allowance arrangement, in recognition of the professional value and regulatory responsibilities associated with an air traffic controller’s licence.
He also revealed that a new rate for the medical allowance of licensed air traffic controllers had been approved and would take effect from January 2027.
According to him, the review of the agency’s Conditions of Service is at an advanced stage and nearing completion, with proposed improvements including payment for English Language Proficiency.
Farouk further disclosed that Management had approved comprehensive insurance coverage for all staff, describing the initiative as part of efforts to strengthen employee welfare and provide greater protection for personnel working in the aviation environment.
He said the initiatives formed part of a broader strategy to reposition NAMA as a modern, efficient and internationally competitive air navigation service provider.
The NAMA managing director, however, stressed that achieving the agency’s objectives required cooperation between Management and staff, urging NATCA to sustain constructive engagement and promote industrial harmony.
He called on air traffic controllers to uphold professionalism, discipline, accountability and strict adherence to operational procedures, noting that institutional transformation remained a shared responsibility.
