NAMA Approves New Rate For Personnel Medical Allowance, Implements Post-License Allowance

The Managing Director of Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Engr. Ahmed Umar Farouk says the management has “approved a new rate for the medical allowance available to Licensed ATCOs to commence in January 2027.”

Speaking at NATCA’s 55th Annual General Meeting held in Lagos under the theme: “Beyond Silos to Synergy: Shaping the Future of Nigerian Air Traffic Management,” Umar who was represented at the event by Director of Air Traffic Services, Mr. John Tayo said ”we understand that access to adequate healthcare is fundamental to staff wellbeing, particularly for personnel performing safety-critical duties. Our commitment is to continue pursuing improvements that will ensure our workforce remains healthy, fit and capable of discharging its responsibilities effectively.”

He also stated that ”management has implemented the Post-License Allowance as against the existing Post-Ratings Allowance arrangement. This is an important development that recognizes the professional value of an Air Traffic Controller’s license and the responsibility associated with maintaining that license. We believe this approach will provide a more appropriate framework for recognizing the professional status and regulatory responsibilities of licensed Air Traffic Controllers.”

NAMA Boss also said NAMA management “acknowledges the indispensable role of Air Traffic Controllers in the safety, efficiency and sustainability of Nigeria’s aviation industry. You occupy a critical position in the aviation value chain, and the responsibility entrusted to you demands professionalism, discipline, continuous learning and unwavering commitment to safety.

The theme of this year’s AGM, “Beyond Silos to Synergy: Shaping the Future of Nigerian Air Traffic Management,” is particularly relevant. It reminds us that the future of air traffic management cannot be achieved through isolated efforts. It requires collaboration between Management and staff, effective communication, mutual trust and a shared commitment to institutional progress.”

He further said “management recognizes that our operational effectiveness is directly linked to the quality and reliability of our equipment and infrastructure.

I am pleased to inform you that the Agency has recently acquired Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast (ADS-B) equipment. This is an important milestone in our efforts to strengthen surveillance capabilities, improve situational awareness and enhance the overall safety and efficiency of air traffic management in Nigeria.

Furthermore, Management is actively pursuing a comprehensive overhaul of our radar systems. We recognize that some of our existing radar infrastructure requires significant upgrading to meet contemporary operational demands. Our objective is to achieve a more reliable, efficient and technologically advanced surveillance network that will support safer skies and improved service delivery.

In addition, Management is engaging with ASECNA to explore technical assistance and support in addressing some of the persistent challenges affecting our communication equipment. We are optimistic that this collaboration will contribute significantly to improving the reliability and availability of our communication infrastructure.

These initiatives demonstrate our determination to move beyond routine maintenance towards sustainable technological renewal.”

On training, Umar said “we remain conscious that our greatest asset is our people. No investment in infrastructure can deliver its full potential without a competent, adequately trained and motivated workforce.

I am delighted to announce that the first batch of our overseas training programme has commenced. This marks a significant step in our commitment to exposing our personnel to international best practices, modern operational procedures and emerging developments in air traffic management. The programme will be implemented in phases to ensure that more officers benefit from international exposure and professional development opportunities.

Our objective is to build a workforce that is not only technically competent but also confident, innovative and prepared for the evolving demands of the aviation industry.”

On Controllers’ welfare, he said “management understands that operational safety and efficiency are closely linked to staff motivation, welfare and working conditions. We have listened to your concerns and recognize the importance of addressing legitimate welfare issues. In this regard, I wish to highlight some important developments.”

He informed the controllers that “the review and improvement of our Conditions of Service (COS) is at an advanced stage and is almost concluded. This exercise is intended to address several outstanding staff welfare and entitlement issues and bring our conditions of service in line with contemporary workplace realities.

Importantly, the proposed improvements include the introduction of payment for English Language Proficiency, recognizing the importance of language proficiency in international aviation communication and the professional requirements of Air Traffic Controllers. We are conscious of the expectations surrounding this exercise and assure you that Management is working towards its successful conclusion.”

NAMA Management has also approved comprehensive insurance coverage for all members of staff. “We recognize the risks associated with the aviation operating environment and the need to provide adequate protection for our workforce. Our intention is to ensure that every member of staff benefits from an appropriate insurance arrangement that provides greater security and peace of mind. We consider this an important component of our broader commitment to staff welfare and institutional responsibility,” he said.

Umar said “these initiatives are not isolated interventions. They form part of a broader strategy to reposition NAMA as a modern, efficient and internationally competitive air navigation service provider.

However, we must acknowledge that institutional transformation is a shared responsibility. Management has a responsibility to provide the necessary leadership, infrastructure, training opportunities and enabling environment. Equally, our personnel must reciprocate through professionalism, discipline, accountability, commitment to duty and adherence to established operational procedures.

I therefore encourage NATCA to continue providing constructive engagement and maintaining an effective partnership with Management. Industrial harmony and open communication remain essential ingredients for achieving our collective objectives.

Let us disagree where necessary, but let our disagreements be guided by mutual respect and the overall interest of the Agency. We must never lose sight of the fact that we are all working towards one common objective: the safety and efficiency of Nigerian airspace.”

Concluding the speech, he said “as we deliberate during this 55th Annual General Meeting, I urge you to look beyond individual interests and embrace the collective vision of building a stronger and more efficient Air Traffic Management system.

The acquisition of ADS-B equipment, commencement of overseas training, ongoing improvements in staff entitlements, proposed radar modernization, collaboration with ASECNA and the pursuit of comprehensive insurance coverage for all staff are clear indications of Management’s commitment to progress.

We may not have addressed every concern, and we recognize that more work remains to be done. However, I assure you that Management remains committed to continuous engagement and practical solutions to the challenges confronting our workforce and the Agency.

Let this AGM strengthen our unity, renew our commitment to professionalism and reinforce the partnership between Management and NATCA. Together, we can move beyond silos, build synergy and shape a safer, stronger and more technologically advanced Nigerian airspace.”