Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, SAN, has hailed air traffic controllers as the “true custodians of air safety” amidst the growing impact of advanced technologies like satellite-based navigation and artificial intelligence on the aviation industry.
Keyamo made this statement during his keynote address at the 35th International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers Associations (IFATCA) Africa and Middle East (AFM) Regional Meeting, in Cairo, Egypt. The gathering brings together aviation stakeholders from across the region to discuss the theme, “Invest in People: Building Safety Capabilities for the Future.”
In his speech, the minister underscored the indispensable role of human expertise in ensuring aviation safety, despite technological advancements. “The true custodians of safety are the men and women behind these systems. It is their expertise, decision-making and adaptability that keep our skies safe,” he remarked.
Keyamo identified three critical areas for investment to strengthen aviation safety: training and capacity building, fostering innovation and collaboration and promoting diversity and inclusion. He emphasised that while technology continues to evolve, the cornerstone of aviation safety remains the skill and professionalism of air traffic controllers and other aviation personnel.
Highlighting Nigeria’s commitment to enhancing safety, the minister cited investments in upgrading the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT) as a strategic effort to provide cutting-edge training for aviation professionals in line with international standards. He also mentioned Nigeria’s collaboration with global aviation organisations such as IFATCA and the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) to bolster safety management systems and emergency response capabilities.
Keyamo further emphasised the importance of diversity within the aviation sector, noting that inclusive workforces introduce new perspectives and innovative solutions to complex safety challenges. He praised initiatives across Africa, such as Ethiopian Airlines Group’s training programmes for women pilots and engineers, and reaffirmed Nigeria’s support for efforts to encourage more women to pursue careers in aviation safety.
“With over 16 million passengers using our airports annually, Nigeria is fully committed to enhancing aviation safety through strategic investments in human capital,” Keyamo stated. “Our focus is on continuous professional development, ensuring that our workforce is equipped to adapt to the evolving landscape of aviation safety.”
He concluded by reiterating Nigeria’s commitment to becoming a leading aviation hub in Africa, driven by sustained investment in people. “The future of aviation safety depends on the people we invest in today. By prioritising continuous training, fostering innovation and embracing diversity, we will build the safety capabilities required for the future,” he said.
The 35th IFATCA Africa and Middle East Regional Meeting continues with discussions on key aviation safety issues, featuring participation from industry leaders, professionals and delegates from across the region.
