Strike Looms In Nigeria’s Aviation Sector As Air Traffic Controllers Threaten To Withdraw Services

Air traffic controllers in Nigeria have threatened to withdraw their services over the deteriorating condition of the country’s communication and surveillance infrastructure, warning that the situation poses a serious threat to aviation safety.

The National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) said it was considering industrial action if the Federal Government failed to present a clear and convincing plan to modernise the ageing equipment used in managing the country’s airspace.

The association’s National President, Edino Amos, made the position known on Tuesday during NATCA’s 55th Annual General Meeting, held under the theme, “Beyond Silos to Synergy: Shaping the Future of Nigerian Air Traffic Management.”

According to Bush Radio Academy, Amos described 2026 as a challenging year for air traffic controllers, expressing disappointment over the lack of substantial improvements in the equipment required to coordinate aircraft movements and maintain safe distances between flights.

He acknowledged that the Federal Government had announced certain approvals and procurement milestones but insisted that these developments had not translated into improved equipment at air traffic control centres across the country.

Amos stressed that the continued reliance on ageing communication and surveillance systems was making it increasingly difficult for controllers to perform their responsibilities effectively.

The NATCA president disclosed that the association had made several efforts to draw the attention of relevant authorities to the challenges confronting the sector.

He said the association had sought 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 (NAMA).

However, he maintained that critical aviation infrastructure should not be subjected to uncertain funding arrangements and prolonged procurement procedures, considering its importance to the safety of passengers, aircraft and other airspace users.

Amos warned that the association might be left with no option but to withdraw its services if the Federal Government failed to demonstrate a firm commitment to addressing the problems.

He emphasised that NATCA expected a clear strategic plan for the comprehensive replacement and modernisation of the country’s communication and surveillance infrastructure.

According to him, upgrading the systems would significantly improve aviation safety, reduce operational inefficiencies, strengthen airline profitability and attract increased air traffic into Nigeria.

He further explained that modern aviation infrastructure could boost government revenue, improve Nigeria’s international aviation rating and strengthen national security.

Amos also highlighted the importance of reliable surveillance systems beyond civil aviation, noting that effective monitoring of aircraft movements was essential to supporting the country’s broader security objectives.

Appealing directly to the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, the NATCA president urged the Federal Government to treat the matter as an urgent national priority.

He clarified that the association’s warning was not intended to threaten the government but was motivated by genuine concerns about public safety and the difficult conditions under which air traffic controllers operate.

The development has raised concerns about the possibility of disruptions to flight operations if the disagreement between the association and the Federal Government is not resolved.