The minister of aviation and aerospace development, Mr Festus Keyamo, said the roles as pilots and engineers demand a high degree of expertise.
He stated this in his Keynote at the national administrative council/national executive council meeting of the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE) held in Abuja yesterday.
Represented by the permanent secretary in the ministry, Dr Emmanuel Meribole, the minister said it is in Nigeria’s best interest to grow a highly skilled workforce, stressing that NAAPE should have constructive engagements with the stakeholders to enhance professional development and enhance safety standards.
He commended the organisation and called on all the aviation unions to engage government agencies, regulatory bodies, and airline operators in dialogue focused on problem-solving.
Keyamo said effective unionism can act as a stabilising force in a struggling economy, especially in critical sectors such as aviation.
He further said the ministry of aviation was committed to providing support for training initiatives that align with global standards.
Advising that unionism should never compromise on safety, the minister noted that the lives of millions depend on the reliability and excellence of pilots and engineers.
“By working closely with regulatory authorities, unions can advocate for the maintenance of aircraft and the highest safety standards, regardless of economic conditions. Safety is a non-negotiable element of the aviation industry, and it must always be at the forefront of our operations,” he stressed
The minister equally said the government was aware of the financial constraints faced by airlines, which impact operational budgets, personnel recruitment, and salary structures.
This reality, he said, called for a unionism approach that is pragmatic and forward-thinking.
“Rather than viewing these challenges as adversarial, unions and management should adopt a problem-solving mindset.
“By working together to find innovative solutions—such as flexible work arrangements, cost-saving initiatives, and shared revenue incentives—unions can help prevent layoffs and business closures.
“This approach not only safeguards jobs but also strengthens the foundations of the aviation sector, ensuring that we can weather economic downturns and prepare for a future upswing”
“The ministry of aviation recognises the critical role of this sector and remains steadfast in its commitment to address the challenges that impact its growth and sustainability.
“We are working on policies that aim to create a more enabling environment for investment, infrastructure development, and workforce training. Efforts are underway to strengthen our airports, improve navigation systems, and support airline operators with streamlined regulatory processes,” Keyamo added.
In his remarks, the chairman of the occasion and the acting director general of the Nigeria Civil Aviation, (NCAA) Capt Chris Najomo said there should be multi-sectoral collaboration for the economy to grow
Najomo who was represented by the agency’s director, public affairs and consumer protection, Mr Michael Achimugu stated there cannot be balance without the unions because they have collective bargaining power of the workers.
“I commend you for your awesome job you have done on your members. The level of his collaboration with the unions has been exemplary. I assure you that NCAA stands with the union. We know the value of what you do. The management is with you all the time,” he said.
