NAMA director Ahmad Abba elected vice president of IFATCA for Africa and Middle East

Alhaji Ahmad Abba, the Director overseeing Special Duties at the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), has been elected as the Executive Vice President for the Africa and Middle East Region within the International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers Associations (IFATCA). 

This announcement comes at the conclusion of the 63rd Annual Conference of IFATCA, held in Singapore, which ends today, April 19th.

Alhaji Ahmad Abba, hailing from Borno state and an alumnus of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru, Jos, had previously served as the Regional Vice President for IFATCA in the Western Subregion before his recent election.

In response to his victory, Abba expressed gratitude and emphasised the confidence IFATCA has placed in Nigeria, particularly highlighting the benefits this brings to the nation’s air traffic controllers and the wider aviation community. 

Acknowledging the collaborative efforts of stakeholders including the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, the Managing Director of NAMA, Engineer Farouk Ahmed, and the Nigerian Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA), Abba stressed the importance of unity in achieving global recognition.

Looking ahead, Abba outlined his vision for the African and Middle East Region within IFATCA, emphasising the promotion of formal partnerships with key organizations such as ICAO and Civil Air Navigation Services Organisations. 

He also pledged to advocate for increased female representation in leadership roles among air traffic controllers, aiming to foster mentorship programs for aspiring professionals.

Speaking of his vision for the African and Middle East Region of the association, the Air Navigation Services Regulator and Air Transport Service incident and accident investigator said “I will be dedicated to enhancing formal partnerships and collaborations with regional representatives of organisations such as ICAO, Civil Air Navigation Services Organisations and other relevant bodies”

“My team and I will advocate for increasing the presence of women in leadership positions among ATCs in our region. Through the mentorship programme, we will connect experienced women air traffic controllers with aspiring professionals, providing guidance, support, and avenues for career growth.

“My goal is to enable air traffic controllers to fully leverage these opportunities for continuous growth and skill development. A well trained and up to date air traffic controller is the cornerstone of a safe and efficient airspace,” he told journalists.

Amidst congratulatory messages pouring in, the President of the Alumni Association of the National Institute (AANI), Ambassador E.O Okafor, and the National Executive Committee celebrated Abba’s election, lauding his contributions to Nigeria’s aviation sector. 

Highlighting his academic journey, professional achievements, and unwavering commitment to excellence, the association hailed Abba’s leadership and expertise.

In a statement, the association extended warm congratulations to Alhaji Ahmad Abba and his family, expressing confidence in his ability to lead IFATCA’s Africa and Middle East Region to new heights.

The statement: “AANI joyously extends its heartfelt congratulations to the esteemed Alhaji Ahmad Abba mni FCPA, an exemplary luminary in our ranks, on his momentous election as the Executive Vice President for the Africa and Middle East Region of the IFATCA.

“In celebrating his ascension to this prestigious position, it is imperative to reflect upon the profound depth of his contributions to the aviation industry in Nigeria and indeed, to the broader landscape of national development in the country.

“His life, characterised by an unwavering commitment to excellence and service, stands as a testament to his indomitable spirit and dedication to advancing the aviation sector.

“Beyond his illustrious career achievements, Alhaji Ahmad Abba mni FCPA embodies the quintessence of wisdom and knowledge, honed through years of experience and his participation in the esteemed Senior Executive Course at our cherished alma mater, the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru.

“Born on September 16, 1970, in Gamboru-Ngala, Borno State, Alhaji Ahmad Abba mni FCPA’s academic journey commenced at Gamboru Central Primary School, culminating in his attainment of a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree with First Class Honours in Geography from the University of Maiduguri.

”His relentless pursuit of knowledge further saw him earn advanced degrees in remote sensing applications, disaster risk management, and development studies.

“His professional trajectory as an air traffic controller, marked by continuous learning and expertise enhancement, exemplifies his commitment to excellence. From completing the ICAO Standard Diploma in Air Traffic Control to attending numerous specialized courses both nationally and internationally, his dedication to mastery is unparalleled.

“Alhaji Ahmad Abba Mni FCPA’s leadership roles within NATCA, his pioneering initiatives, and his service as Director of Special Duties at NAMA underscore his profound impact and influence within the aviation community.

“Our association AANI stands proudly alongside Alhaji Ahmad Abba Mni FCPA, rejoicing in his achievements and offering our unwavering support as he embarks on this new chapter of leadership within IFATCA.

“We extend our warmest congratulatory message to him and his loving family, wishing him continued success and confidence in his ability to elevate IFATCA to unprecedented heights.

“Congratulations, Alhaji Ahmad Abba mni FCPA, Director of Special Duties at NAMA, on this unprecedented pioneering feat, your well-deserved election as the Executive Vice President, Africa and Middle East Region of the International Federation of IFATCA!”