In a bid to prevent further strain on its aviation operations, the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), under the direction of the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, has recalled 57 retired air-traffic controllers as an immediate fix to a mounting manpower shortfall.
This decision follows warnings from the Nigerian Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) that the sector is facing severe shortages, with serving controllers frequently working four to five hours continuously per session, far beyond the standard two-hour limit.
Minister Festus Keyamo has confirmed that the recalled controllers will be stationed primarily at less busy airports, as a temporary measure while longer-term reforms are put in place. “We have recalled 57 retired ATCOs to manage less busy airports and address the shortage of active air traffic controllers,” he stated, adding: “This measure will stabilise operations while we improve remuneration and training to attract new talent into the system.”
Simultaneously, the ministry is reviewing the retirement age for air-traffic controllers, with a proposed increase from 60 to 65 years, to retain experienced personnel and allow them to pass on knowledge to newer staff.
The underlying crisis reflects more than just staff exhaustion. NATCA forecasts that without prompt action, the air-traffic-controller workforce could decline sharply, potentially widening the manpower gap by up to 70 per cent by 2030. In addition to retirements, the industry is losing workers to the Japa migration trend and inter-agency transfers as skilled professionals seek better opportunities abroad.
From an economic perspective, this manpower crunch poses a serious risk. The aviation sector already contributes an estimated US$600 million annually to Nigeria’s GDP, with tourism spending boosting that figure further, vulnerable if operational disruptions grow.
Disruptions caused by staff shortages can lead to flight delays or cancellations, making Nigeria’s airports less reliable and potentially deterring foreign investment and tourism. Every grounded flight or delayed clearance translates into lost revenue for carriers, airports and the broader supply chain.
In summary, the recall of 57 retired controllers is a stop-gap measure to keep Nigeria’s air-traffic management functioning as the country works toward building a more sustainable workforce through training, policy reform and retention strategies.
