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…NAAPE seeks mentorship for younger professionals
By Chinelo Obogo
Aviation professionals comprising female pilots, engineers, air traffic controllers, flight dispatchers, cabin crew, ground handlers and other professionals recently converged at the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) Annex in Lagos, as the Women Commission of the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE) marked the 2026 International Women’s Day under the theme; ‘Give to Gain’, to honour the contributions of women in aviation and chart a course for greater inclusivity in the sector.
In her opening remarks, the immediate past leader of the NAAPE Women’s Commission and an aircraft engineer with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAT), Kyola Dyaji, set the tone for the day. She reminded attendees that International Women’s Day is not only a celebration of progress but also a moment to honour women who have broken barriers, professionals currently shaping the industry, and young women who dream of becoming aviation leaders.
She said women have played remarkable roles in shaping the sector and continue to make contributions that keep the industry safe, but noted that while aviation has made progress, more opportunities and greater representation for women remain an important priority.
“This year we gather under the theme: Give to Gain. It is also an opportunity to recognise the role of mentors, allies, and organisations that actively support women’s advancement in aviation through education, training, leadership development, and equitable opportunities.
“As aviation professionals, we share a common mission: to connect people, cultures, and economies across the world. By fostering an environment where every talented individual, regardless of gender, can thrive, we strengthen not only our organisations but the global aviation community as a whole. This gathering allows us to celebrate achievements, exchange ideas, inspire future leaders, and reaffirm our collective commitment to a more inclusive and innovative aviation industry,” she said.
The first female Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Olubunmi Kuku, who was represented at the event by a Deputy General Manager, Ujueze Jumbo, commended the resilience and professionalism of female aviation professionals, noting that their contributions are indispensable to the sector’s success.
Kuku said that without the pilots and engineers the sector will literally not function, as the industry depends heavily on them for operations and success. She said the association has continued to create platforms that showcase windows of opportunity for younger women.
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She said: “We live in a society where mentorship is dwindling rapidly every day. It is my conviction that you are ably filling this gap. It is also important to commend your professional contributions to the growth and smooth operations of the aviation industry. Without the pilots and engineers, the sector will literally not function. The industry depends on you heavily for operations and success. Frankly speaking, you have lived up to expectation and have also distinguished yourselves in your professional calling in the sector, delivering world-class service at all times. You have demonstrated capacity and excellence, and we are indeed proud of your achievements. FAAN will continue to partner with your association for greater accomplishments.”
The Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Farouk Umar, who was represented by the Acting General Manager for Standards, Hauwa Musa, said that for many decades the industry was largely perceived as the domain of men, but that this narrative is steadily changing as women are increasingly occupying critical positions across the aviation value chain as pilots, engineers, air traffic controllers, aviation managers, safety experts, regulators and technical specialists.
He said: “In Nigeria, we have witnessed remarkable progress. Women are not just participating in aviation; they are leading, innovating and shaping the future of our industry. From the cockpit to the control tower, from engineering workshops to regulatory institutions, women continue to demonstrate excellence, professionalism and resilience. Within NAMA, we take pride in the growing number of women who are contributing to the safe, orderly and efficient management of Nigeria’s airspace.
Our female air traffic controllers, engineers and technical personnel perform some of the most demanding tasks in aviation with exceptional competence and dedication. Their work ensures that aircraft operating within Nigerian airspace do so safely and efficiently every single day. Their achievements remind us that aviation is ultimately about human capacity, skill, knowledge, discipline and the courage to embrace responsibility. These qualities are not defined by gender; they are defined by opportunity and determination.”
He noted, however, that while progress deserves celebration, more work remains to be done, as women are still underrepresented in several technical and leadership roles in the sector, and that bridging this gap requires deliberate action through mentorship, access to training, supportive workplace policies and sustained institutional commitment.
The President of NAAPE, Capt. Bunmi Gindeh, who attended the event in person, commended the women in aviation, whom he said continue to make invaluable contributions to the industry. He said the progress the sector has made would not have been possible without the dedication, resilience and professionalism of women who continue to excel in fields that were once considered out of reach.
“From the cockpit to the hangar floor, from technical operations to leadership and policy, women have continued to demonstrate excellence, innovation, and strength. At NAAPE, we remain committed to fostering an environment where talent and professionalism thrive regardless of gender. Our Women’s Commission stands as a testament to this commitment, serving as a platform for mentorship, professional development, and advocacy for women within our association and the broader aviation sector. The theme for this year’s celebration, ‘Give to Gain,’ reminds us that progress in any profession comes from a willingness to support and uplift others. When we create opportunities, share knowledge, and encourage the next generation of women in aviation, the entire industry becomes stronger.
“To the women of NAAPE and the wider aviation community, please know that your contributions are seen, respected, and deeply valued. Your dedication continues to inspire not only your colleagues but also the young girls who will one day aspire to follow in your footsteps,” he said.
While the event highlighted the progress that has been made in the sector regarding the increasing number of women in aviation, it also acknowledged that women remain underrepresented, as systemic barriers continue to limit their access to training and advancement.
