NATCA members elected into IFATCA

Abdullateef Fowewe

In a landmark achievement for Nigeria’s aviation sector, members of the Nigerian Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) were elected into three major standing committees of the International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers Associations (IFATCA) during the 64th Annual Conference, held from April 28 to May 2, 2025, in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

Ahmad Abba, Executive Vice President of IFATCA for the Africa and Middle East region and Director of Special Duties at the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), announced that NATCA members secured seats on the Constitution and Administration Committee (CAC), the Professional and Legal Committee (PLC), and the Technical and Operations Committee (TOC).

Abba emphasised the significance of this achievement, stating, “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 Honourable Minister’s vision of transforming Nigeria into an aviation hub with globally competitive standards.”

In addition to these committee roles, NATCA members joined crucial task forces focused on policy reforms and safety initiatives within IFATCA.

The conference, described by participants as a “conference of milestones and regional unity,” also saw the admission of Chad and Congo Brazzaville into IFATCA, expanding the federation’s reach in Central Africa. Another highlight was the signing of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding between IFATCA and FACAA, paving the way for enhanced regional technical collaboration.

A major milestone was the unveiling of the IFATCA AFM Strategic Plan 2025–2027 by Ahmad Abba, outlining objectives to elevate training, foster regional collaboration, and strengthen member associations in line with global best practices.

Nigeria’s active engagement at the conference, particularly through NATCA’s participation in key deliberations and policy sessions, underscored the country’s growing influence and commitment to advancing global aviation standards.

The next regional meeting is scheduled for Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, in November 2025, with Uganda set to host the 2027 IFATCA Annual Conference, marking a return of the prestigious event to Africa after nearly a decade.