Search and Rescue NAMA Veteran Iwalaye Retires After 32 Years

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Mr. Sunday Iwalaye, General Manager Search and Rescue at Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), retired after 32 years of dedicated service.

He began his Search and Rescue NAMA career in 1993 and left at age 60, marking a distinguished legacy. NAMA

The retirement ceremony doubled as a birthday celebration and the launch of three aviation books authored by Iwalaye.

Attendees praised the books as valuable resources for new entrants and seasoned aviation professionals aiming to deepen their industry knowledge. NAMA Search and Rescue

Iwalaye has published eight books over the last eight years, contributing significantly to aviation literature.

A large crowd of dignitaries, colleagues, friends, and family gathered to honour his achievements. They lauded his professionalism, dedication, and humane character.

Engr. Farouk Umar, Managing Director NAMA, described Iwalaye as a competent professional and family man.

Represented by Mr. Johnny Ogegere, General Manager at NAMA MMIA Lagos, Umar urged all present to emulate Iwalaye’s commitment to duty.

He extolled his works as General Manager Search and Rescue.

Search and Rescue, Other Careers

Ogegere, who joined NAMA the same year as Iwalaye, praised him as a thoroughbred professional who gave more to the agency than he received.

He said, “Iwalaye is a trained Search and Rescue NAMA expert who excelled, becoming a General Manager. I believe NAMA’s management doors will always remain open to him.”

NAMA staff member Mr. Sola Dada highlighted Iwalaye’s positive impact on the agency, especially through his aviation publications.

Dada noted, “Marking Iwalaye’s retirement and birthday with his impactful books is a celebration of knowledge. These works offer lasting solutions for air travel in Nigeria and beyond.”

Iwalaye expressed gratitude for the tributes and thanked NAMA management. He particularly thanked the Managing Director and Director of Operations, for their proactive role in sustaining sector safety.

He confirmed that NAMA covered all publication costs for the three new books. One of the books focused on Search and Rescue

 He also celebrated reaching 60 years of age and 32 years in service, describing it as a significant achievement in the demanding Air Traffic Control profession.

He said, “I feel excited and grateful. Reaching 60 with a hitch-free 32-year career in ATC deserves glory to God.

“I started with no knowledge of ATC until I responded to a 1992 newspaper advert.”

“The training opportunity in Spain was a big incentive. The journey since has been smooth, thanks to God, my colleagues, and NAMA management.”

The event’s highlight was the launch of his three books. A Handbook on Aeronautical Search and Rescue and A Brief Note.

Finally, on Area Airways Non-Radar Control: Non-Radar Separation: Enroute & Terminal.