The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) Managing Director, Engr. Ahmed Umar Farouk, has been honoured with the Exceptional Leadership Award by the Nigerian Air Traffic Controllers’ Association (NATCA) for his outstanding commitment to operational excellence and airspace safety since assuming office in 2023.
The award presentation took place during NATCA’s 54th Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Award Night held in Abuja, themed “The Human Edge: Capacity Building in the Next Generation Air Traffic Management.”
Other NAMA directors were also recognized for their notable contributions to the agency’s growth and reform agenda. Dr. Musa Abdullahi, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, received the Partnership Award, while the Director of Air Traffic Services (DATS), Mr. John Tayo, was honoured with the Leadership Award. The Director of Special Duty, Alhaji Ahmed Abba, was also presented with the Mentorship Award for his dedication to nurturing professional growth within the agency.
In his remarks, NATCA President, Mr. Amos Edino, commended Engr. Farouk for leading NAMA through a period of innovation and modernization that has repositioned the agency in line with global aviation standards as outlined by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
Edino described the NAMA MD as a visionary administrator whose policies and technical reforms have significantly enhanced Nigeria’s air navigation service delivery.
Speaking at the event, DATS Director, Mr. Tayo, highlighted the agency’s achievements over the past two years, including the upgrade of critical air navigation infrastructure, enhanced collaboration with international aviation bodies such as ICAO and ASECNA, and the introduction of Performance-Based Navigation (PBN) procedures across major airports.
He also reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to continuous staff development, technical training, and the improvement of service standards across Nigeria’s airspace. “Air traffic controllers remain the heartbeat of aviation safety, and NAMA will continue to prioritize their welfare and professional advancement,” he stated.
On his part, Dr. Abdullahi applauded the synergy between NATCA and his directorate, describing the association as a vital partner in sustaining the nation’s airspace safety framework.
He noted that the recognitions would further motivate NAMA’s management to pursue new reforms, strengthen infrastructure, and expand the agency’s contribution to regional aviation growth.
Dr. Abdullahi added that under Engr. Farouk’s leadership, NAMA has witnessed renewed efficiency, professionalism, and commitment to technology-driven service delivery, aligning with the federal government’s vision for a safer and more advanced aviation sector.
