Air Traffic Controllers are True Custodians of Aviation Safety – Keyamo

Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo has eulogised air traffic controllers as “true custodians of air safety” even as advanced technologies such as satellite-based navigation and artificial intelligence continue to transform the industry.

The Minister said this in a keynote address at the ongoing 35th International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers Associations (IFATCA) Africa and Middle East (AFM) Regional Meeting, held in Cairo, Egypt.

The event, which brings together aviation stakeholders from across the region, focused on the theme “Invest in People: Building Safety Capabilities for the Future.”

The Minister highlighted three key areas of investment crucial to enhancing aviation safety: training and capacity building, fostering innovation and collaboration, and promoting diversity and inclusion.

He emphasised that while technology is advancing, the foundation of aviation safety remains the skill and expertise of air traffic controllers and aviation professionals.

He cited Nigeria’s investment in upgrading the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT) 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 organizations such as IFATCA and 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 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 and our focus is on continuous professional development, ensuring that our workforce is equipped to adapt to the evolving landscape of aviation safety.”

Keyamo concluded by reiterating Nigeria’s commitment to positioning itself as a leading aviation hub in Africa through sustained investment in people.

“The future of aviation safety depends on the people we invest in today. By prioritising continuous training, fostering innovation, and embracing diversity, we will 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.