Aviation Experts Convene to Address Manpower Challenges in Nigeria

On May 4, 2024, prominent aviation experts and stakeholders gathered at the GolfView Hotel and Suites in Lagos to discuss the pressing issues hindering the growth of Nigeria's aviation sector. The forum, themed"Manpower Strategy, Training, Succession, and Human Capital Development in the Nigerian Aviation Sector,"was hosted by the Aviation Safety Roundtable Initiative (ASRTI).

The development of Nigeria's aviation sector has significant implications for the country's economy and global connectivity. Addressing the manpower challenges in this industry is crucial for ensuring safe and efficient air travel, as well as promoting economic growth and development.

Air Commodore Ademola Onitiju, President of ARTI, emphasized the importance of investing in human resources, stating, "An industry that invests in its human resource would reap a bumper harvest of successes." He stressed that the Nigerian aviation industry must prioritize human capital development to ensure career progression, stability, succession, and harmonious workforce relations.

Onitiju also highlighted the significance of soft skills, such as effective communication, teamwork, and mutual respect, which are attainable through training and are fundamental for aviation professionals. These skills complement the technical expertise required in the industry.

Captain Roland Iyayi revealed a concerning statistic, stating,"A couple of years ago, we had a lot of state governments training pilots. At the last count, we had about 400 young pilots hanging around with no jobs. "This underscores the need for policies that support tourism and smaller carriers to create employment opportunities for these trained pilots.

Why this matters: Engr. Benedict Adeyileka, former Rector and CEO of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology, Zaria, emphasized the importance of succession planning. He cited Boeing's estimate that Africa needs 67,000 pilots, technicians, and cabin crew to solve manpower problems. Adeyileka stated, "Succession planning should involve all levels of the aviation organisation from senior leaders to frontline employees."

The forum highlighted the dire state of Nigeria's aviation infrastructure, with only 11 out of 30 airports currently in active service. The gathering of experts and stakeholders aimed to identify solutions to the manpower challenges plaguing the industry and chart a path forward for sustainable growth and development in the Nigerian aviation sector.

Key Takeaways

• Nigeria's aviation sector faces manpower challenges, hindering growth and development.
• Investing in human resources is crucial for safe and efficient air travel.
• Soft skills like communication and teamwork are essential for aviation professionals.
• Nigeria needs policies to support tourism and smaller carriers to create jobs for trained pilots.
• Africa requires 67,000 pilots, technicians, and cabin crew to solve manpower problems.