By ITOHAN ABARA-LASERIAN

The Nigerian Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) has urged the urgent recruitment and training of more Air Traffic Controllers (ATCOs) to manage the country?s airspace and combat fatigue.

NATCA President, Mr Amos Edino, made this appeal during an interview with journalists on Monday in Lagos.

He stated that the recruitment was necessary to ensure optimal safety and efficiency in airspace management.

According to Edino, the current shortage of ATCOs has led to excessive workload, prolonged duty hours, and increased stress, negatively affecting both performance and well-being.

He noted that controllers often work beyond the standard two-hour shift limit per session, with some working continuously for four to five hours due to staff shortages.

On remuneration, Edino noted that Nigerian ATCOs remained the lowest-paid in Africa in spite of their critical role in ensuring the safe and efficient flow of air traffic.

He urged the government to review salaries in line with international best practices to boost motivation within the profession.

Edino also criticised the practice of rehiring retired ATCOs on contract, suggesting a more sustainable solution ? raising the retirement age from 60 to 65 years.

He explained that this would enable knowledge transfer, mentorship, and continuity, similar to policies for health workers and teachers.

Edino stressed the need for a comprehensive healthcare package, noting that prolonged exposure to radar radiation has caused cancer-related health issues among ATCOs.

Regarding Air Traffic Management (ATM) systems, he called for an urgent upgrade of the Total Radar Coverage of Nigeria (TRACON) system, which has exceeded its lifespan.

?There have been documented cases of ATCOs developing cancer-related ailments, highlighting the need for immediate action to address occupational health risks.

?TRACON was designed for a 10-year lifespan. Now, nearly 20 years old, its reliability, availability, and integrity have significantly declined,? Edino said.

He also emphasised the need to modernise Nigeria?s Air Traffic Control communication system to ensure safer and more efficient operations.

Edino further called for better facilities and equipment to improve coordination with adjacent Flight Information Regions (FIRs) and other ATC units.

In spite of these challenges, NATCA acknowledged the efforts of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) under Managing Director, Mr Umar Farouk, in addressing long-standing issues.

He reaffirmed NATCA?s willingness to collaborate in achieving a safer and more efficient Air Traffic Management System.

On infrastructure, Edino criticised the poor working conditions in many control towers and operational rooms.

He noted that in several locations, non-functional lifts forced controllers, including female and pregnant ATCOs, to climb over 250 steps daily to reach their workstations. (NAN)