CHUKS OKOH
In a major endorsement of Nigeria’s standing in global aviation leadership, Ahmad Abba, mni, Director of Aerodrome and Airspace Standards at the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), has been re-elected as Executive Vice President for Africa and the Middle East (EVP-AFM) of the International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers’ Associations (IFATCA).
The election took place during the 37th IFATCA Africa and Middle East Regional Meeting held in Amman, Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.
Following the vote by delegates from member associations across the two continents, Abba’s new executive mandate will span from 2027 through 2029.
First elected to the continental leadership position in 2024, Abba’s return to the executive board highlights the strong confidence placed in his stewardship by regional air traffic management stakeholders.
In his continued role as EVP-AFM, Abba will lead efforts to strengthen regional collaboration among civil aviation authorities, international bodies, and industry partners.
His agenda focuses on championing air navigation safety, bolstering operational efficiency, supporting workforce capacity building, and advocating for the professional growth and welfare of air traffic controllers across both regions.
Expressing appreciation after the announcement, Abba reaffirmed his devotion to advancing the region’s airspace management standards.
“I am deeply honoured by the trust placed in me to continue serving the Africa and Middle East Region,” Abba stated. “I remain committed to working with our member associations and regional partners to strengthen IFATCA, support our air traffic controllers, and contribute to a safer, more resilient and sustainable aviation system.”
A veteran air traffic controller with more than 25 years of aviation experience, Abba is an International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)-certified instructor. Over his career, he has held key operational, search and rescue, safety, and regulatory roles. At the NCAA, he oversees regulatory compliance and standardisation for aerodromes and airspace across Nigeria.
Industry observers note that Abba’s re-election represents a significant achievement for Nigeria, highlighting the growing influence and contributions of Nigerian aviation experts within international governing bodies.
