NATCA Lagos Chapter Inaugurates Secretariat as NAMA MD Urges Rededication to Service
The Lagos chapter of the Nigerian Air Traffic Controllers’ Association (NATCA) has officially inaugurated its new secretariat at the Centre of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja.
The facility, which will serve as a relaxation hub for air traffic controllers (ATCOs) before and after duty shifts, was unveiled by the Director of Air Traffic Services at NAMA, Mr John Tayo, who represented the agency’s Managing Director, Engr Umar Farouk.
Expressing his delight at the completion of the project, which was initiated just a few months ago by the local executives of NATCA, Mr Tayo commended the dedication and vision that brought the idea to fruition.
Speaking on behalf of the Managing Director, he called on air traffic controllers to rededicate themselves to the service of NAMA, emphasising their critical role in ensuring the safety of Nigeria’s airspace.
He noted that the current management has demonstrated a strong commitment to staff welfare and the overall growth of the agency.
“It is time to reciprocate management’s efforts through hard work and unwavering service delivery. We must eschew any actions that could bring NAMA into disrepute among other aviation agencies worldwide,” Engr Farouk stated.
He also lauded the commitment and determination of the Chairman of NATCA’s Lagos chapter, Mr Harrison Duru, in ensuring the successful completion of the project.
“What we are witnessing today is the result of selfless dedication by all those who contributed to making this secretariat a reality. I can already see that our future is bright,” he added.
He further acknowledged the support of the Airspace Manager in assisting the local executives to achieve this milestone.
In his address, Mr Harrison Duru explained that the idea for the secretariat was conceived due to pressing circumstances.
He recounted how the chapter was left without an accommodation space after the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) demolished the personnel area they previously used.
This, he said, made it difficult for air traffic controllers to operate effectively.
“The need for this building arose out of necessity. Last year, when our previous facility was demolished, we struggled to find a proper space. Today, we have a befitting secretariat that will serve as a post-work briefing centre, allowing us to review daily operations,” Duru stated.
Looking ahead, he revealed plans to expand the facility by incorporating a gym and a table tennis court, not just for air traffic controllers but for the wider aviation community.
He appealed to the management of NAMA to support the chapter by furnishing the secretariat with essential office equipment and amenities.
Additionally, he urged his colleagues to take ownership of the facility and make good use of it.
The unveiling ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including the General Manager of Aeronautical Information Services, Alhaji Gausa Yahaya; General Manager of Human Resources, Mr Solomon Ohiomah; the Airspace Manager for Murtala Muhammed Airport; and the Military Airport Commandant, Group Captain Stella Udo.
The inaugurated secretariat will serve as a dedicated space for NATCA members to unwind and engage in post-operational reviews, further enhancing their efficiency and service delivery within the sector.
