Nigerian air traffic controllers threaten to withdraw services
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Leadership
The Nigerian Air Traffic Controllers' Association (NATCA) threatens to withdraw its operational services unless the federal government presents a strategic plan to modernise communication and surveillance equipment. Its president, Edino Ilemona Amos, said at the annual general meeting in Ikeja, Lagos, that announced purchases have not improved controllers' equipment.
The Nigerian Air Traffic Controllers' Association (NATCA) threatens to suspend its services unless the federal government and aviation authorities present a strategic plan to overhaul the ageing and faulty air traffic communication and surveillance systems, according to its president, Edino Ilemona Amos. He spoke on Tuesday at the association’s 55th annual general meeting, held in Ikeja, Lagos.
Amos regrets that despite several announcements of equipment purchases and regulatory approvals, no significant improvement has been observed. 'We acknowledge the approvals and purchase milestones announced, but they have not translated into a concrete improvement in the equipment available to controllers at their posts,' he said.
He specified that this position is not a threat, but reflects the concerns of professionals responsible for the safety of Nigerian airspace, who must ensure safe aircraft movements with unreliable communication frequencies and insufficient surveillance equipment.
