BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, on Tuesday, declared open the 54th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Nigeria Air Traffic Controllers’ Association (NATCA), with a charge to strengthen human capacity for safer and more efficient airspace management.
The event, themed “The Human Edge: Capacity Building in the Next Generation Air Traffic Management,” held at the NAF Conference Centre, Abuja, aligns with the minister’s Five-Point Agenda and President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope vision for the aviation sector.
In his opening remarks, Keyamo praised air traffic controllers for their professionalism and commitment to safety, describing human capacity as “the most critical component of aviation safety and efficiency.”
He said the Ministry would continue to prioritise training, retraining, and the creation of an enabling environment for aviation professionals to thrive.
“As the global aviation industry evolves toward next-generation air traffic management systems, Nigeria must strategically invest in its people to remain competitive and compliant with international standards,” the minister said.
Keyamo reaffirmed his commitment to fostering excellence and innovation through sustained human capital development, adding that the government’s focus is to position Nigeria as a regional aviation hub driven by skilled manpower and advanced technology.
The event drew top industry figures including the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana; Managing Director of FAAN, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku; Director-General of NCAA, Captain Chris Najomo; and NAMA’s Managing Director, Engr. Farouk Ahmed Umar.
The AGM serves as a platform for controllers, regulators, and other stakeholders to deliberate on emerging challenges, share best practices, and chart strategies to enhance operational efficiency, safety, and service delivery across Nigeria’s airspace.
Olapeju is a journalist and aviation reporter.
