NAAPE presidential contest heats up as Igwe declares

By Chinelo Obogo

The publicity secretary of the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE), Dr. Francis Igwe, has signified his intention to run for the office of the President, promising to improve on the gains of the union’s current administration.

At a news conference held at the association’s office in Lagos, Igwe, an aircraft engineer with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) said his decision to run is driven by the urgent need to consolidate on the achievements of the past and current leadership, while steering NAAPE towards greater relevance in the face of modern workplace challenges.

Igwe recalled the formation of NAAPE through the amalgamation of the pilots’ and engineers’ unions over four decades ago, describing it as a purposeful effort to protect members’ welfare and dignity.  The presidential hopeful paid tribute to fallen members of the union and commended the outgoing president, Abednego Galadima, whom he said took the association to ‘enviable’ heights, ensuring that it owns a property at the heart of Lagos. “I am fully aware of the size of the shoes I seek to step into but I pledge not only to fill them, but to consolidate and build upon the legacy for even greater achievements,” he said.

Igwe said his mission is to make NAAPE stronger, more relevant, and more present in the lives of its members.  He highlighted threats such as job insecurity, wage stagnation, unsafe working conditions, and unfavorable policies, warning that hard-won gains could be eroded if the union fails to act decisively.

He spoke of a future where NAAPE would defend workers’ rights with renewed vigor, negotiate better wages and welfare packages that reflect economic realities, and bring non-unionized pilots and engineers into the fold.

Pledging to strengthen solidarity across branches, establish state councils and a women’s commission, and prioritise training and international certifications to prepare members for the evolving aviation industry. Transparency and accountability, he stressed, would be at the core of his leadership.

“Every fund, every resource, and every decision will be open to scrutiny. I will adopt an open-door policy and ensure members can contribute ideas without fear,” he assured.

Igwe also promised to dedicate the necessary time and energy to serve members nationwide, with a commitment to accessibility, inclusiveness, and consultative decision-making. He appealed to members for their trust and support: “I do not claim to have all the answers, but I promise to listen, to consult, to unite, and to lead with integrity. Together, we will secure better pay, safer workplaces, and a stronger future for every NAAPE member.”