As the world commemorates Air Traffic Controllers’ Day, the Nigeria Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) has once again drawn attention to the persistent challenges hindering smooth air traffic management operations across the country.

Speaking at a media briefing in Lagos to mark the occasion, the President of NATCA, Mr. Amos Edino, emphasized that years of inadequate infrastructure investment, poor maintenance of existing airport facilities, and the continued use of obsolete equipment across the aviation sector have severely impacted operational efficiency.

Mr. Edino identified additional challenges, including maintaining operational continuity and resilience, and integrating emerging technologies into Nigeria’s air traffic systems. He noted that global aviation is evolving rapidly, with new technologies reshaping how airspace is managed.

According to NATCA, the growing volume of commercial flights, private jets, and cargo operations has placed immense pressure on air traffic services nationwide. Edino disclosed that in 2024 alone, domestic airlines operated approximately 80,000 flights, while international carriers conducted about 15,000 flights, underscoring the substantial increase in annual flight movements.

He further highlighted that the emergence of drones (UAVs), urban air mobility (UAM) vehicles, and automated navigation systems has introduced new complexities to already congested airspace. Other critical issues include staffing shortages, training gaps, and an ageing technical workforce, all of which require urgent attention to maintain industry standards and safety benchmarks.

Mr. Edino stressed that training and retraining of experienced air traffic controllers remain ongoing challenges, particularly in addressing factors that affect performance such as fatigue, stress, and heavy workloads, which can pose serious safety risks in such a high-pressure environment.

On the issue of funding, NATCA expressed concern over inadequate government allocations for the operation, maintenance, and modernization of aviation infrastructure. The association called for increased investment to upgrade air traffic control systems, modernize navigation facilities, and enhance overall operational efficiency.

He also advocated for the deployment of advanced communication systems, including VHF extensions for wider coverage and data link technologies to enable faster and more accurate flight information exchange. Edino urged the adoption of cost-effective training programs and the maintenance of high safety and proficiency standards across the sector.

Furthermore, he emphasized the need to enhance job satisfaction through competitive remuneration, career development opportunities, and a supportive work environment. According to him, fostering a stronger safety culture where safety is treated not merely as a regulatory requirement but as a core operational value is vital to achieving sustained performance and continuous improvement.

Mr. Edino expressed appreciation to the management of NAMA, NCAA, NCAT, NSIB, FAAN, and the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, under the leadership of Hon. Minister Barr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, for their continued support in advancing Nigeria’s aviation sector.

The World Air Traffic Controllers’ Day, celebrated annually on October 20, honors the men and women who ensure the safety and efficiency of global air travel. The day also commemorates the founding of the International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers’ Associations (IFATCA) on October 20, 1961.

In Nigeria, air traffic controllers manage flights across 32 airports, airstrips, and overflights within the Kano Flight Information Region (FIR). With increasing traffic volumes, their workload continues to grow. On average, Nigeria’s air traffic controllers handle over 15 million passengers annually, reflecting the robust and expanding nature of the nation’s aviation industry.