Airline operators in Nigeria have raised concerns over the critical shortage of Air Traffic Controllers (ATCs), warning that the situation poses significant risks to aviation safety. The concerns were voiced by the President of the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), Alhaji Abdulmumeen Yunusa Sarina, during the 53rd Annual General Meeting of the Nigerian Air Traffic Controllers’ Association (NATCA) in Kano.
Sarina, who is also the chairman of Azman Group, emphasized that the shortage of qualified ATCs is a growing threat to air navigation safety and efficiency. He stressed that overworked and overstretched ATCs are at risk of reduced performance, which could have dire consequences in an industry where human error is a major contributor to accidents.
Sarina highlighted that ATCs are often subjected to long hours and irregular shifts due to the inadequate workforce. He warned that such conditions create adverse physical and psychological challenges, which are well-documented contributors to accidents in the aviation sector.
“Human factors account for about 50% of major aircraft accidents, often stemming from personnel being exposed to stressful working conditions,” Sarina stated. “We must ensure ATCs are adequately trained, supported, and available in sufficient numbers to man air traffic installations across the country.”
To address the safety risks, the AON president called on the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) to prioritize the recruitment of more air traffic controllers and invest in satellite-based navigation systems to reduce flight delays and operational risks.
“There is an urgent need for trained manpower to ensure safety, efficiency, and increased operational capacity for airlines,” he added.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Barr. Festus Keyamo, acknowledged the critical role of ATCs in ensuring air safety, referring to them as the “unsung heroes” of the aviation industry. Represented by Mr. Olusola Oyekunle, Keyamo lauded the dedication of ATCs despite the significant resource constraints and the high-pressure nature of their work.
Outgoing NATCA President, Comrade Abayomi Agoro, highlighted efforts to address the manpower shortage during his tenure, including the recruitment of 200 ATC cadets. However, he also called for a review of the federal government’s policy of deducting 50% from NAMA’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), which he said hampers efforts to improve infrastructure and staffing.
The acute shortage of qualified ATCs has led to the recall of retired personnel to bridge the gap temporarily. Industry stakeholders have expressed concern that this is an unsustainable solution in an industry where safety is paramount.
As the aviation sector expands and traffic increases, the call for immediate and decisive action to address ATC shortages has become more urgent. Stakeholders stress that failure to resolve this issue could compromise the safety and reliability of Nigeria’s airspace, putting passengers, airlines, and the broader industry at risk.
