LAGOS/Nigeria: The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has reiterated its commitment to fostering a professional and technologically advanced environment where the expertise of air traffic engineers can continue to flourish. The Managing Director of NAMA, Dr. Umar Farouk, delivered the assurance on Friday at the Annual General Meeting of the National Association of Air Traffic Engineers (NAAE) in Lagos. He was represented by the Director of Air Traffic Services, Mr. John Tayo.
Farouk noted that the agency’s modernisation efforts, including major upgrades in Communication, Navigation and Surveillance (CNS) systems and advanced automation technologies, are anchored on the competence and dedication of air traffic engineers. He described their role as central to the integrity of Nigeria’s air navigation infrastructure.
“At NAMA, we recognise your work, we value your contribution, and we remain fully committed to supporting a professional environment where your skills can flourish and where modern technology and continuous training are prioritised,” he said. “Every radar sweep, every communication channel, every navigational aid, and every emerging digital system depends on your vigilance, precision, and innovation.”
He added that the AGM serves not only as a technical platform but also as an opportunity for collaboration, mentorship, and alignment with global aviation best practices. Farouk further assured members that NAMA will work closely with NAAE in 2026 to deepen system reliability and enhance innovation-driven operations.
“As we look toward the coming year, we will continue to strengthen system reliability, empower our workforce, and ensure that our operations remain future-ready,” he said, adding that the agency is working round the clock to address operational, administrative and welfare concerns.
NAAE President, Mr. Selzing Miri, praised members for their resilience and professionalism in sustaining the integrity of the nation’s airspace despite challenges such as inadequate tools, limited training opportunities, and less-than-ideal working environments. He noted that Nigerian air traffic engineers continue to deliver with “great dignity” even without optimal conditions.
Miri expressed appreciation to the Federal Government, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, FAAN and NAMA for continued support. He emphasised the need for factory-level training and the replacement of obsolete equipment to ensure enhanced safety and operational efficiency.
Speaking on the theme of the AGM, the Managing Director of FAAN, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, represented by the Director of Safety, Mrs. Ifeoma Mba—highlighted the pivotal role of air traffic engineers in powering the “invisible network” that keeps aviation safe. She described them as the guardians of the technical systems that enable every safe take-off and landing.
“Our terminals run smoothly only because your systems in the tower and the field operate flawlessly,” Kuku said, urging stronger collaboration to meet the challenges posed by aging infrastructure, rapid technological shifts, and rising traffic demands.
The event drew participants from the Lagos State Government, the Federal Ministry of Aviation, and air traffic engineers from across the country.
