Keyamo hails air traffic controllers as custodians of aviation safety

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has praised air traffic controllers as the “true custodians of air safety,” according to his Special Adviser, Tunde Moshood, in a statement released on Monday.

Keyamo emphasised the crucial role that air traffic controllers play in maintaining aviation safety, especially as cutting-edge technologies like satellite-based navigation and artificial intelligence become more integrated into the industry.

“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.

In his address, the minister outlined three key areas of investment critical to enhancing aviation safety: training and capacity building, fostering innovation and collaboration, and promoting diversity and inclusion.

He stressed that despite technological advancements, the foundation of aviation safety remains the skills and expertise of professionals, particularly air traffic controllers.

Keyamo highlighted Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen its aviation sector through investment in human capital, citing the upgrading of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology. He also noted that these investments ensure that air traffic controllers and other professionals receive world-class training aligned with international standards.

Additionally, Nigeria’s collaboration with global aviation bodies, such as the International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers’ Associations and the International Civil Aviation Organisation, aims to enhance safety management systems and emergency response plans.

“With over 16 million passengers using our airports annually, Nigeria is fully committed to improving aviation safety through strategic investments in human capital.

“Our focus is on continuous professional development, ensuring that our workforce is equipped to adapt to the evolving landscape of aviation safety,” Keyamo added.

He reaffirmed Nigeria’s ambition to become a leading aviation hub in Africa, stressing that the future of the country’s aviation safety capabilities depends on today’s investments in people.

The minister also commended initiatives such as the Ethiopian Airlines Group’s training of female pilots and engineers and reiterated Nigeria’s support for programmes that encourage more women to pursue careers in aviation safety roles.