The Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Engr. Ahmed Farouk, has been conferred with the Exceptional Leadership Award by the Nigerian Air Traffic Controllers’ Association (NATCA) in recognition of his visionary leadership, unwavering commitment to operational efficiency, and dedication to airspace safety since taking office in 2023.
The award was presented during the Award and Dinner Night marking the 54th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of NATCA, held in Abuja. The event, themed “The Human Edge: Capacity Building in the Next Generation Air Traffic Management,” celebrated excellence and innovation within Nigeria’s aviation industry.
NATCA also recognised several other NAMA directors for their outstanding service and contributions.
The Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Dr Musa Abdullahi, received the Partnership Award; the Director of Air Traffic Services (DATS), Mr John Tayo, was honoured with the Leadership Award; while the Director of Special Duties, Alhaji Ahmed Abba, was presented with the Mentorship Award.
President of NATCA, Mr Amos Edino, praised Engr. Farouk’s transformative approach to airspace management, describing him as a visionary whose leadership has redefined Nigeria’s air navigation services.
He commended the NAMA boss for championing a modernisation drive that aligns the agency’s operations with global aviation standards as set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
Mr Edino said: “Engr. Farouk has shown exceptional technical and managerial acumen. Under his stewardship, NAMA has recorded significant milestones in modernisation, safety enhancement, and capacity building, which have placed Nigeria’s air navigation system on a competitive global footing.”
Speaking at the event, NAMA’s Director of Air Traffic Services, Mr John Tayo, noted that the past two years have witnessed a remarkable transformation within the agency.
He highlighted the successful upgrade of key air navigation and surveillance systems, enhanced partnerships with international aviation bodies such as ICAO and ASECNA, and the introduction of Performance-Based Navigation (PBN) procedures across major airports.
According to him, NAMA’s ongoing reforms are anchored on capacity building and professional development.
“We are committed to continuous training of our personnel to ensure operational excellence and the highest safety standards. Air traffic controllers remain at the heart of our operations, and their welfare will always be a top priority,” he assured.
Also speaking, the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Dr Musa Abdullahi, expressed appreciation for the strong collaboration between NAMA and NATCA, noting that the recognition will further encourage the management to push ahead with reforms and infrastructure development projects that support Nigeria’s aviation growth.
He described air traffic controllers as “the lifeline of the nation’s airspace safety and management,” adding that their professionalism continues to sustain confidence in the Nigerian aviation system.
Dr Abdullahi further observed that the leadership of Engr. Farouk has not only inspired the NAMA workforce but has also reinforced the Federal Government’s broader commitment to ensuring safe, efficient, and technology-driven air navigation services.
The event concluded with a call for continued synergy between NAMA and NATCA to advance Nigeria’s airspace management and maintain its alignment with international best practices.
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