The Nigerian Air Traffic Controllers’ Association (NATCA) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing safety and human capacity in Nigeria’s aviation industry as it prepares to host its 54th Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Abuja from October 21–22, 2025.
Themed “The Human Edge: Capacity Building in the Next Generation Air Traffic Management,” the event will bring together air traffic management professionals, regulators, and international partners to address the evolving dynamics of air navigation in an era of automation and artificial intelligence.
President of NATCA, Mr. Edino Amos Ilemona, said the choice of theme underscores the Association’s belief that human capacity remains the cornerstone of aviation safety, even as the sector embraces technological innovation.
“As the aviation industry transitions into technology-driven systems, the human controller remains the core of air traffic safety and coordination,” Edino said. “This AGM aims to strengthen our members’ capacity through dialogue, policy engagement, and professional development.”
He explained that the 54th AGM will evaluate Nigeria’s readiness for next-generation air traffic management systems while reinforcing the values of safety, efficiency, and professionalism that define NATCA’s mission.
According to Edino, the Association remains committed to fostering a safe, technology-driven airspace, lauding the leadership of the Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Engr. Ahmed Farouk, and the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, for their sustained support towards aviation safety.
He noted that while automation and artificial intelligence are redefining global air traffic management, Nigeria’s controllers must be continuously equipped through structured training and exposure to remain globally competitive.
“The theme of this AGM reflects our conviction that while technology enhances efficiency, it is the human edge: the skill, judgment, and professionalism of the air traffic controller that guarantees safety,” the NATCA President added.
The two-day event will attract participants from NAMA, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), and the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT).
International partners including the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers’ Associations (IFATCA), and the United States ATS will also be in attendance.
Activities lined up include technical paper presentations, panel discussions, training workshops, exhibitions, and interactive sessions. The event will also feature awards to honour individuals and organisations that have made outstanding contributions to air traffic management and safety.
