The 64th Annual Conference of the International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers’ Associations (IFATCA) which took place in Abu Dhabi,United Arab Emirates. has been concluded.

High  points of the event were the  leadership displayed by the Africa and Middle East (AFM) region particularly Nigeria under the  coordination of Ahmad Abba,  the Executive Vice President of the AFM region and Director of Special Duties at the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA).

The conference, which brought together air traffic control professionals and experts from across the globe, served as a  platform for dialogue, cooperation, and innovation within the aviation industry.

A major highlight of the conference was the unveiling of the IFATCA AFM Strategic Plan 2025–2027 by EVP Ahmad Abba.

The  document outlines  framework aimed at enhancing professional development, institutional capacity, and safety standards across the region.

The  plan seeks to elevate training, foster regional collaboration, and strengthen member associations while aligning with global best practices in air traffic management.

Nigeria, through the Nigerian Air Traffic Controllers’ Association (NATCA), was among the most actively engaged participants at the conference.

NATCA delegates took part in key committee deliberations and policy sessions, demonstrating technical depth and institutional commitment to the advancement of global aviation standards.

Nigerian representatives were elected into three of IFATCA’s most influential Standing Committees:

*Constitution and Administration Committee (CAC)

*Professional and Legal Committee (PLC)

*Technical and Operations Committee (TOC)

This triple-election not only reinforces Nigeria’s growing credibility in international aviation circles but also signals a renewed confidence in Nigerian professionals to contribute meaningfully to global regulatory and operational frameworks.

In addition to these roles, NATCA members also earned seats in  taskforces driving policy reforms and safety initiatives within IFATCA.

The  achievements recorded by Nigeria at the conference resonate  with the 5-point aviation agenda of the  Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.

Under the guidance of EVP Ahmad Abba, the AFM region recorded historic milestones, including:

The admission of Chad and Congo Brazzaville into IFATCA, expanding the federation’s footprint in Central Africa;

The signing of a landmark MoU between IFATCA and FACAA (Fédération des Associations des Contrôleurs Aériens de l’ASECNA) a new chapter for regional technical collaboration;

The election of Uganda to host the 2027 IFATCA Annual Conference, returning the  event to Africa  after nearly a decade.

The conference also acknowledged the unwavering efforts of AFM Member Associations and volunteers whose contributions to IFATCA’s taskforces embody the spirit of unity and professionalism that defines the region.

As delegates return to their home countries, the AFM region departs with renewed energy, strategic clarity, and an inspired commitment to build on the momentum gained in Abu Dhabi.

With the next regional meeting sets for Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, in November 2025, all eyes are now on Africa to sustain this upward trajectory.

With Nigeria leading from the front and its professionals now deeply embedded in the fabric of IFATCA’s global structure, the future of air traffic management across the continent looks poised for transformational growth.