As Nigeria joins the rest of the world on 20th October to observe the world Air Traffic Controllers Day, the Female Air Traffic Controllers took charge of all its control units nationwide, including Area approach and terminal control.
This bold initiative, which was conceived by the first female controller in Nigeria, Mrs Hauwa Danboyi, was approved by management when she led other senior female air traffic controllers to management.
Deputy General manager DGM Air Traffic Management ATM, Nigeria Civil Aviation Authorities NCAA, Mrs Kate Nnanna-ibemgbo who was charged to head the planning committee noted that it is lined at promoting and celebrating women in the male dominated ATC profession.
“We thought to come together and pull our individual strength to scheme a collective strength and do what we can to project the core values of ATC in Nigeria. We also thought to show the inclusion in our profession to ensure synergy between the male and the female counterparts.
Nnanna-Ibemgbo further added “Today, is an all female crew across the country simultaneously, to show our unity in action. We thought it wise to come together and do something that would show the trajectory of how things happen in other climes.
Also expressing her pleasure at the history making events DGM technical evaluation and manpower development NAMA,Mrs Ekeada Doris noted that it makes her proud that there are enough ladies occupying positions all over the country, not just in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, but also in the Calabar and Enugu, adding that what a man can do a woman can do better.
She also added that “ATC is a male dominated profession, and due to all the challenges and stress involved, ATC is the most stressful job in the world. As women, we have our families, our children, and we are making it because we are able to do what the men are doing alongside all our other responsibilities; It is fantastic for the upcoming generation. My message to them is that the sky is just the beginning.There is nothing you cannot accomplish. ATC is a proud and great profession”
A first officer with Air Peace Airline, Mrs Atinuke Stanley-Rafu says this milestone is important because it means times are changing and it is very inspiring and an amazing day for all.
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