The Nigerian Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) has raised concerns over the poor remuneration of Nigerian air traffic controllers, stating that they remain the least paid in Africa. NATCA President, Amos, made this known during an interview at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.
Emphasized the critical role air traffic controllers play in ensuring the safe, orderly, and efficient flow of air traffic. He urged the government to review the salary structure to align with international best practices, stressing that improved remuneration would enhance motivation and professionalism within the sector.
Staff Shortages and Overwork highlighted the severe shortage of Air Traffic Controllers (ATCOs) in Nigeria, which has led to excessive workloads, prolonged duty hours, and increased stress levels. He revealed that ATCOs often work beyond the standard two-hour shift limit, with some enduring four to five hours of continuous duty due to manpower constraints.
This shortage, he noted, has negatively impacted both performance and well-being, raising serious safety concerns. called for the urgent recruitment and training of additional ATCOs to mitigate fatigue and ensure optimal safety in airspace management.
Challenges in Training and Recruitment
The NATCA president expressed concerns over the rapid establishment of new airports by state governments without corresponding plans for staffing and operational management. He pointed out that the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT) in Zaria lacks the capacity—both in facilities and instructional manpower—to train the required number of ATCOs.
While the government recently initiated the recruitment of over 200 cadets, criticizing the selection process for lacking due diligence in assessing qualification requirements. To address the training gap, the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) has sought assistance from the Nigerian Air Force ATS Training School in Kaduna.
Retirement Age and Health Concerns
also addressed the practice of rehiring retired ATCOs on contract, advocating instead for an extension of the retirement age from 60 to 65 years. He argued that this would allow for knowledge transfer, mentorship, and continuity within the profession, similar to policies extended to health workers and teachers.
Additionally, called for improved retirement packages to discourage post-retirement contract engagements. also emphasized the need for comprehensive healthcare packages for ATCOs, citing prolonged exposure to radiation in radar facilities as a cause of cancer-related health challenges.
Poor Working Conditions and Outdated Infrastructure lamented the poor working conditions faced by ATCOs, particularly in control towers and operational rooms. He revealed that non-functional elevators in many locations force controllers, including pregnant women, to climb over 250 steps daily to access their workstations. This has reportedly led to cases of miscarriages and other health issues.
Also highlighted the outdated systems in many ATC work environments, which adversely affect efficiency and safety. Specifically, he called for an urgent upgrade of the Total Radar Coverage of Nigeria (TRACON) system, which has exceeded its intended 10-year operational lifespan and is now nearly 20 years old.
Call for Modernization and Collaboration stressed the need for modern communication systems and improved coordination with adjacent Flight Information Regions (FIRs) and other ATC units. Despite these challenges, he acknowledged the efforts of NAMA under the leadership of Managing Director Engr. Ahmed Umar Farouk.
commended the administration’s commitment to addressing these long-standing issues and expressed NATCA’s willingness to collaborate in achieving a safer and more efficient Air Traffic Management System.
A Defining Moment for NAMA
This is a defining moment for the agency, concluded. “If NAMA successfully resolves these persistent challenges, it will be a lasting legacy for the leadership team, ensuring that Nigeria’s ATC system ranks among the best globally.