BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
Nigeria’s flag flew brilliantly on the global aviation stage as three members of the Nigerian Air Traffic Controllers’ Association (NATCA) earned prestigious seats on standing committees of the International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers’ Associations (IFATCA).
The milestone came during the 64th IFATCA Annual Conference held from April 28 to May 2, 2025, in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
The appointments mark a remarkable triumph for Nigeria’s aviation professionals, with representatives securing places on the Constitution and Administration Committee (CAC), the Professional and Legal Committee (PLC), and the Technical and Operations Committee (TOC)—three of IFATCA’s most influential governance bodies.
Ahmad Abba, Executive Vice President (EVP) of IFATCA for the Africa and Middle East (AFM) region and Director of Special Duties at the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), led the Nigerian delegation.
He described the development as a clear recognition of Nigeria’s growing credibility in international aviation governance.
“The triple-election not only reinforces Nigeria’s growing credibility in international aviation circles but also signals a renewed confidence in Nigerian professionals to contribute meaningfully to global regulatory and operational frameworks,” Abba stated.
Beyond committee elections, NATCA members were also appointed to strategic task forces advancing policy reforms and safety standards within IFATCA, an affirmation of their technical competence and leadership.
Delegates lauded the 2025 conference as one of regional breakthroughs and strengthened unity under the stewardship of Ahmad Abba. Notably, Chad and Congo Brazzaville were formally admitted into IFATCA, expanding the organization’s reach across Central Africa.
Another highlight was the signing of a major Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between IFATCA and the Fédération des Associations des Contrôleurs Aériens de l’ASECNA (FACAA), signaling a new era of regional cooperation and technical exchange.
“These strategic achievements resonate strongly with the five-point aviation agenda of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo”, Abba said.
By amplifying Nigeria’s voice on the global stage and expanding its technical influence through IFATCA’s governance structures, NATCA’s engagement directly supports the Minister’s vision of transforming Nigeria into an aviation hub with globally competitive standards”
A memorable moment at the conference was the unveiling of the IFATCA AFM Strategic Plan 2025–2027 by Abba.
The forward-thinking document charts a bold course for regional aviation, focusing on professional development, institutional capacity building, and elevated safety standards.
The plan aims to enhance training, promote regional collaboration, and fortify member associations in line with global air traffic management practices.
Nigeria’s NATCA delegates were among the most visible and active participants throughout the week, contributing meaningfully to policy sessions and committee discussions.
Their engagement reflected deep institutional commitment and technical expertise, reinforcing Nigeria’s role as a thought leader in aviation safety and governance.
The Abu Dhabi conference gathered air traffic control professionals and experts from around the world, serving as a vital platform for global cooperation, innovation, and strategic dialogue.
Under Abba’s coordination, the Africa and Middle East region made a powerful impression, not just through representation but through substantive contributions to IFATCA’s global agenda.
Delegates acknowledged the dedication of AFM member associations and volunteers, whose work across IFATCA task forces exemplified the region’s professionalism and unity.
As delegates return to their respective countries, African representatives expressed renewed energy and strategic clarity.
“With Nigeria leading from the front and its professionals now deeply embedded in the fabric of IFATCA’s global structure, the future of air traffic management across the continent looks poised for transformational growth,” a delegate remarked.
The next regional meeting will be held in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, in November 2025, with anticipation building for sustained progress.
Uganda will host the IFATCA Annual Conference in 2027, bringing the prestigious event back to African soil for the first time in nearly a decade.
