Nigeria has achieved a significant milestone in global aviation as three members of the Nigerian Air Traffic Controllers’ Association were elected to key standing committees of the International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers’ Associations (IFATCA).

This accomplishment took place during IFATCA’s 64th Annual Conference, held from April 28 to May 2, 2025, in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The elected members will now serve on the Constitution and Administration Committee, the Professional and Legal Committee, and the Technical and Operations Committee.

Ahmad Abba, IFATCA’s Executive Vice President for Africa and the Middle East, remarked that this achievement highlights Nigeria’s growing influence in global aviation governance. Abba, who is also the Director of Special Duties at the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency, stressed that “this triple election is a clear demonstration of international confidence in the competence and professionalism of Nigerian air traffic controllers.”

He further noted that NATCA members also secured positions in influential task forces dedicated to policy reform and aviation safety.

Additionally, he highlighted that the conference marked significant milestones for the AFM region, including the admission of Chad and Congo Brazzaville into IFATCA, expanding the federation’s presence in Central Africa.

Abba highlighted that a key moment at the conference was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between IFATCA and the Fédération des Associations des Contrôleurs Aériens de l’ASECNA, which will promote stronger regional collaboration.

Aligning with Nigeria’s aviation development objectives, Abba also emphasized that the progress made at the conference supports the five-point agenda of Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.

“By amplifying Nigeria’s voice on the international stage and expanding our technical influence, these gains directly support the Honourable Minister’s vision of positioning Nigeria as a competitive global aviation hub,” he stated.

A major outcome of the conference was the introduction of the IFATCA AFM Strategic Plan for 2025–2027, which was presented by Abba.

“The forward-looking plan outlines initiatives to enhance professional development, build institutional capacity, and uphold high safety standards, all while promoting regional cooperation and alignment with global best practices,” Abba explained.

The next IFATCA AFM regional meeting is scheduled for November 2025 in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.

In addition, Uganda has been selected to host the 2027 IFATCA Annual Conference, marking the return of the global aviation event to Africa after nearly a decade.