NAMA Highlights Milestones in ATC Training, Capacity Building Ahead of ICAO Safety Audit
The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has made significant strides in air traffic controller training and capacity building, revealing its recent achievements during the annual air traffic management workshop held at Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos.
In a statement signed by Abdullahi Musa, Director, Public Affairs at NAMA, the Managing Director, Engr. Farouk Ahmed Umar, disclosed the agency’s accomplishments between December 2023 and October 2024, with notable focus on enhancing air traffic control (ATC) proficiency and readiness for the upcoming International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme (USOAP).
According to Engr. Farouk, NAMA, in conjunction with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), has conducted Annual Proficiency Checks for 339 air traffic controllers.
Additionally, 69 air traffic controllers underwent Promotion Proficiency Checks, demonstrating the agency’s commitment to maintaining high professional standards in air traffic management.
To address existing gaps ahead of the ICAO audit, NAMA said it has also conducted English Language Proficiency Checks for 243 controllers in line with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulation (NCAR) Part II.
Listing other milestones, Engr. Farouk stated that a total of 87 air traffic controllers successfully passed the NCAA Certification Examination Rating in Aerodrome, Approach, and Area (Procedural and Surveillance), while another 91 controllers received new or renewed ATC licences, ensuring full compliance with ICAO Document (9426).
Represented by the Director of Air Traffic Services, Mr John Tayo, Engr. Farouk further highlighted NAMA’s efforts to enhance capacity with the upcoming full deployment of the Air Traffic Control 3-D Tower Simulator at Lagos Centrex.
He also revealed that similar simulators are planned for airports in Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Kano, demonstrating NAMA’s commitment to expanding and upgrading its training facilities nationwide.
Engr. Farouk urged air traffic controllers across the country to remain dedicated to their duties, noting that his administration’s policy direction is centred on optimising the capacity of critical personnel.
He emphasised the importance of continuous training and capacity building, which would ensure the maximum and efficient use of the country’s communication, navigation, and surveillance infrastructure.
The event underscored NAMA’s focus on professionalism and capacity building as key to sustaining air traffic safety in Nigeria.
