Air traffic controllers threaten strike over failing equipment

Nigerian air traffic controllers have threatened a strike over deteriorating communication and surveillance infrastructure. The National Air Traffic Controllers Association said the Federal Government is yet to translate announced procurement approvals into functional equipment for the professionals responsible for coordinating aircraft movements and maintaining safe separation between flights.

The association national president, Edino Amos, said 2026 has been particularly challenging for air traffic controllers, with little improvement in the systems they rely on to manage the country airspace. Mr Amos spoke on Tuesday at the 55th Annual General Meeting of NATCA, themed Beyond Silos to Synergy: Shaping the Future of Nigerian Air Traffic Management. He warned that the association could consider withdrawing its services if the government fails to present a clear plan to overhaul the country communication and surveillance infrastructure.

NATCA said it has made several attempts to draw government authorities attention to the infrastructure deficiency. These attempts included seeking engagements with the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, the National Counter Terrorism Centre, the Office of the National Security Adviser, and the management of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency. However, Mr Amos noted that these engagements have not produced the improvements needed to ease the operational challenges facing air traffic controllers.

The association argued that communication and surveillance systems should not be subjected to funding uncertainties or prolonged procurement processes because of their importance to aviation safety and national security. It said the possibility of industrial action is becoming increasingly difficult to rule out without concrete government commitments. Nigeria airspace is managed by NAMA, which provides air navigation services, including air traffic control, communication, navigation and surveillance infrastructure. The agency operational responsibilities are distinct from those of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, which manages airports and related facilities.

Mr Amos said investing in reliable infrastructure will improve airspace safety, reduce operational inefficiencies and prevent avoidable economic losses for airlines. According to him, improved systems could support increased air traffic, boost government revenue, strengthen national security and improve Nigeria standing in the global aviation industry. He also argued that reliable surveillance infrastructure is important beyond civil aviation, particularly in supporting efforts to monitor aircraft movements and strengthen the country security architecture.