Najomo Advocates Effective Relations Between Management and Workforce

The Director-General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Capt. Chris Najomo has called for effective industrial relations, constructive engagement,and mutual understanding between management and staff in resolving workplace concerns within the aviation sector.

Capt. Najomo gave this charge at a five-day International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers' Associations (IFATCA) and the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) joint training programme on Industrial Relations and Negotiation Skills for Air Traffic Controllers (ATC) holding in Lagos between 23rd and 27th March, 2026.

While highlighting the rapidly evolving nature of the aviation sector, he identified increasing operational demands, technological advancements, and complex workforce dynamics as factors underscoring the need for constructive engagement and mutual understanding between management and staff.

The DGCA noted that the aviation industry requires stability, professionalism, and trust, and as such, any disruptions, no matter how well-intentioned, carry significant implications not only for operations but also for safety, economic stability, and public confidence. Hence, dialogue must come first, and industrial action should be a last resort.

He expressed the Authority's commitment to promoting a just culture, strengthening institutional frameworks, and ensuring that all aviation professionals operate within an environment that supports both safety and fairness.

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In his remarks, the NCAA Director of Aerodrome and Airspace Standards (DAAS) who doubles as the Executive Vice President, International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers Association (IFATCA), Africa & Middle East Region (AFM), Alh. Ahmad Abba (mni), appreciated the International partners and participants for making the programme possible, reiterating that industrial relations within aviation must be guided by mutual respect, structured engagement, and a shared commitment to safety and service delivery.