LAGOS – Mr. Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development has described Air Traffic Controllers (ATCs) as the true custodians of air safety in the global aviation industry, especially in Nigeria despite the advancement in technologies.
A statement by Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser on Media and Communications keyamo, said that the minister extolled the ATCs in his keynote address at the ongoing 35th International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers’ Associations (IFATCA) Africa and Middle East (AFM) Regional Meeting, holding in Cairo, Egypt.
Keyamo agreed that advanced technologies such as satellite-based navigation and artificial intelligence continued to transform the aviation industry, but the impact of ATCs could not be underestimated.
The event, which brings together aviation stakeholders from across the region, focuses on the theme: ‘Invest in People: Building Safety Capabilities for the Future.’
In his speech at the event, the aviation minister underscored the critical role of human capital in ensuring aviation safety, particularly as advanced technologies such as satellite-based navigation and artificial intelligence continue to transform the industry.
Keyamo harped on training and capacity building, fostering innovation and collaboration and promoting diversity and inclusion as some of the key areas of investment crucial to enhancing aviation safety.
He explained that while technology was advancing, the foundation of aviation safety remained the skill and expertise of air traffic controllers and aviation professionals.
He said: “The true custodians of safety are the men and women behind these systems. It is their expertise, decision-making, and adaptability that keep our skies safe.”
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He further cited Nigeria’s investment in upgrading the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria as a strategic step to ensure that air traffic controllers and other aviation professionals receive cutting-edge training aligned with international standards.
Keyamo also noted Nigeria’s collaboration with global aviation organisations such as IFATCA and the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) to strengthen safety management systems and emergency response plans.
The minister further stressed the importance of fostering diversity in the aviation industry, noting that inclusive workforces bring fresh perspectives and solutions to complex safety challenges.
He further commended initiatives across Africa, such as the Ethiopian Airlines Group’s training of women pilots and engineers, and reaffirmed Nigeria’s support for programmes that encourage more women to pursue careers in aviation safety.
“With over 16 million passengers using our airports annually, Nigeria is fully committed to enhancing aviation safety through strategic investments in human capital.
“Our focus is on continuous professional development, ensuring that our workforce is equipped to adapt to the evolving landscape of aviation safety,” he added.
He also reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to positioning itself as a leading aviation hub in Africa through sustained investment in people.
He maintained that the future of aviation safety depended on the people, stressing that by prioritising continuous training, fostering innovation and embracing diversity, the government would build the safety capabilities required for the future.
The 35th IFATCA Africa and Middle East Regional Meeting continues with discussions on critical aviation safety issues, drawing participation from industry leaders, professionals, and delegates across the region.
