Two Years in office: How Dan'majen Gwandu Transforms NAMA

NAMA in Safe Hands: Celebrating Two Years of Transformational Leadership Under Engr. Farouk Ahmed Umar!

It was on a faithful Wednesday, 13th December 2023, that the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) witnessed a defining turning point—one that many in the aviation sector now describe as a blessing to the nation. Following the inauguration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, on 29th May 2023, came a visionary decision that reshaped the destiny of Nigeria’s airspace: the appointment of Engr. Farouk Ahmed Umar, FNSE, MCOREN, NPOM, then the Director of Safety Electronics and Engineering Services, as the new Managing Director of NAMA.

Two years later, that decision stands as one of the most accurate, intuitive, and impactful leadership selections under the Renewed Hope administration. President Tinubu did not simply appoint a Managing Director—he entrusted NAMA to a man with profound technical depth, calm discipline, and an unwavering commitment to safety and national growth.

More importantly, the President blessed Engr. Farouk with one of the most brilliant management teams in the history of the Agency—a team whose collective intelligence, unity, and dedication continue to shine through their daily work. This is a management team that works tirelessly, purposefully, and in complete harmony with Engr. Farouk to ensure the success of NAMA at every level of its operations.

Their loyalty, competence, and shared vision have contributed enormously to the achievements recorded over these two years. Together, they have demonstrated what is possible when leadership is strong, support is unwavering, and teamwork is built on trust and excellence.

Today, NAMA’s progress speaks loudly. Technical systems have been modernized. Navigational aids are receiving top priority. Communication and surveillance facilities have been strengthened. Staff welfare, once a challenge, has now become a central pillar of management under Engr. Farouk’s direction. Across departments, staff express renewed motivation, happiness, and respect for the Agency’s leadership.

Many industry observers now reflect on the future with excitement. If just two years of Engr. Farouk’s leadership could deliver this level of transformation, then a full tenure promises to be extraordinary. It is almost breathtaking to imagine how far NAMA will rise if this momentum is maintained. The potential for further modernization and excellence is immense—and the aviation industry sees it clearly.

Of course, none of these achievements would have been possible without the steadfast support of national leadership. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, deserves deep commendation for the wisdom behind his decision, for trusting Engr. Farouk, and for providing the backing needed to strengthen the aviation sector.

The Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, Esq., SAN, equally deserves heartfelt accolades. His policies, supervisory guidance, and understanding of sectoral needs offered the environment that enabled NAMA’s reforms to flourish. His continuous support of Engr. Farouk and the management team has been instrumental to the Agency’s outstanding performance.

As we celebrate this two-year milestone, warm congratulations go to Engr. Farouk, his exceptional management team, the President, the Honourable Minister, and the entire NAMA workforce. Together, they have built a foundation of excellence, stability, and renewed confidence in Nigeria’s airspace management.

Today, NAMA is not just progressing—

NAMA is thriving.

NAMA is stable.

NAMA is in truly safe hands.

And as the Agency looks to the years ahead, one truth is clear: with continued support and united leadership, the success story of NAMA will continue to brighten the future of Nigeria’s aviation sector.

The skies are safer.

The staff are happier.

The systems are stronger.

And the future is full of promise.

This is the legacy unfolding under Engr. Farouk—a legacy that Nigeria will continue to celebrate.