The Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON, FCIArb (UK), has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s strong commitment to human capacity development in the aviation industry as he formally declared open the 54th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Nigeria Air Traffic Controllers’ Association (NATCA) in Abuja.
Themed “The Human Edge: Capacity Building in the Next Generation Air Traffic Management,” the high-profile gathering, held at the NAF Conference Centre, brought together aviation professionals, regulators, and industry stakeholders to chart a new course for the advancement of air traffic management in Nigeria.
Keyamo’s address at the event reflected his Five-Point Agenda for transforming the aviation and aerospace sector, emphasizing human capital development as a cornerstone of sustainable growth and safety enhancement. He stated that the ministry, under his leadership, would continue to invest in training, retraining, and workforce empowerment to position Nigeria’s aviation sector for global competitiveness.
“Human capacity remains the heartbeat of aviation safety and efficiency,” the Minister declared. “As the aviation industry evolves globally toward next-generation air traffic management systems, Nigeria must strategically prepare its workforce to remain competitive, compliant, and technologically advanced. Our professionals are the true assets of the system, and we will continue to build their competence and confidence.”
According to Odutayo Oluseyi, Head of Press and Public Affairs at the Ministry, Keyamo commended NATCA for its consistent commitment to safety, discipline, and professionalism in air traffic management, noting that the Association continues to play a vital role in ensuring safe and efficient use of Nigeria’s airspace.
The Minister’s remarks aligned closely with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes excellence, innovation, and human development across strategic national sectors.
The event was attended by top dignitaries, including the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, mni; Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN); Captain Chris Najomo, Director-General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA); and Engr. Farouk Ahmed Umar, Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA). Also present were heads of aviation agencies, representatives of professional associations, and key industry players.
The Annual General Meeting served as a strategic forum for air traffic controllers, policymakers, and aviation experts to discuss emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities in Nigeria’s aviation management system. Deliberations focused on technological adaptation, operational efficiency, and safety standards, as well as the urgent need for Nigeria to adopt innovative frameworks to meet international aviation benchmarks.
The forum further reinforced the understanding that human capital development remains central to achieving a safe, efficient, and globally respected aviation system — one that aligns with international best practices and supports the government’s vision of transforming Nigeria into a regional aviation hub.
Minister Festus Keyamo declares open the 54th NATCA AGM in Abuja, reaffirming commitment to human capacity development in Nigeria’s aviation sector. The event highlights President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the push toward next-generation air traffic management systems.
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