The Nigeria Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) has called for upgraded infrastructure, improved communications system among others to boost air traffic control contributions to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Products (GDP) as well as maintain operational continuity and global competitiveness.
The President of NATCA, Mr Edino Ilemona made the assertion as air traffic controllers (ATC) commemorate the 2025 World Air Traffic Controllers Day.
Itemising the association’s recommendations, Ilemona said: “Upgraded Infrastructure: Modernised air traffic control systems, navigation facilities to enhance operational efficiency.
“Improved communication: implement advanced communication systems VHF for extended coverage and introduce the data links for faster more accurate exchange of flight information; Streamline training: develop more efficient and cost -effective training programs and maintain high standards of safety and proficiency.
“Improve retention: implementation strategies to improve job satisfaction, such as competitive salaries, career development opportunities, and supportive work environments; Foster a stronger safety culture : priorities safety not just as a regulatory requirement but as a fundamental operational values, with a focus on pre-emptive risk managements and continuous improvement.
“Strengthening coordination: provide facilities and equipment necessary for better coordination with adjacent flight information region (FIRs) and other ATC units”.
According to Ilemona, the objectives of ATC is to prevent collision between aircraft; and between aircraft and obstructions. Expedite and maintain an orderly flow of air traffic, as well as to provide advice and information for safe conduct of flight; provide and assist in search and rescue aids.
According to Ilemona, in Nigeria, dedicated ATC professionals manage average of over 15 million passengers annually. The passenger figures provide a good estimate of air traffic which is the most commonly reported metric, this includes a mix of of domestic and international travel through Nigeria Airports.
“In 2024, domestic airlines in Nigeria alone operated about 80,000 flights with international airlines operated about 15,000 flights. This suggests the total annual flight numbers are substantially high.
“Nigeria’s number of airports is increasing through new constructions projects and expansion of existing facilities for instance, Ogun State Gateway International Airport has recently received approval for commercial flights (granted an aerodrome operational permit from the NCAA to begin scheduled commercial flight) marking a new addition to the country’s airport network.
“Air traffic controllers support flight across 32 airport, airstrips and overflight within the kano Flight information region (FIR), hence the continues increase in traffic volume, more workload for ATC.
“Contributions of the Industry to the Nigerian Economy: Contribution to GDP According to the Aviation Sector study conducted by IATA in June 2020, the air transport industry (including airlines and its supply chain) is estimated to contribute about US $600 million to Nigeria’s GDP. Spending by foreign tourists is projected to support a further US $1.1 billion of the country’s GDP. At a total of US $1.7 billion, the air transport sector and foreign tourists arriving by air are estimated to contribute 0.4 per cent of the country’s GDP.”
Ilemona identified the key challenges faced by air traffic controllers in Nigeria and globally as; Increased Air Traffic Volume; Infrastructure; Obsolete plants and equipment and facilities across the aviation sector; Maintaining operational continuity and operational Resilience; Integrating emerging technologies.
He noted that the world of aviation was rapidly changing with the emergence of new technology. Drones (UAVs), Urban air mobility (UAM) vehicles and increasingly automated navigation systems are adding new layers of complexity to already busy skies.
He also hinted staffing, training, and Human factors, Ageing technical human resources in aviation, air traffic controllers; Inadequate numbers of technical staff to meet the set industry manning standards; Condition of service requiring attention; Training, and retraining experienced air traffic controllers; fatigue, stress, heavy workloads, high pressure environment and financing remain constant challenge.
Speaking on training and capacity building, the president explained that the essential skills for air traffic controllers included; Swift decision-making proficiency; Resilience to stress and pressure; Effective prioritization aptitude; Proficient multitaskin; Adaptability; Strong communication skills; Exceptional memory; Collaborative team player; Skill in visualizing complex situation and Spatial awareness acumen (Situation awareness).
Ilemona, on behalf of the association hailed president Bola Tinubu’s five points agenda, implemented by the minister of Aviation, Mr Festus Keyamo, SAN, to build a safe, secure and efficient aviation industry focused on making Nigeria a hub that meets international standard.
Recall that the world Air Traffic control day is celebrated on October 20 to honour the men and women who work to ensure air travel is safe and efficient, and to recognise the founding of the international federation of air traffic controllers’ association (IFATCA) on October 20, 1961 which is a key organisation in the development of the air traffic profession.
Air traffic controllers are the unsung heroes ensuring the safety and efficiency of air travel worldwide. Air traffic control (ATC) manages aircraft in the sky and on the ground. Controllers communicate with pilots and guide them during taxi, take-off, landing and cruising.
