The National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE) has urged the Federal Government to subsidize aviation training institutions to reduce the cost of training pilots and aircraft engineers.

National Treasurer of NAAPE, Captain Bunmi Gindeh, made the call in Abuja while declaring his intention to contest for the office of National President of the association.
He stressed that the high cost of training remains a major challenge, making it difficult for many aspiring professionals to qualify.

“Funding has been a major issue over the years. Training engineers and pilots is very expensive, and there is an urgent need for the government and the private sector to provide more support,” Gindeh said.

He disclosed that some commercial banks have expressed willingness to support members in obtaining licenses and training abroad but lamented that pilots and engineers are often short-changed in access to loans and financial assistance. If elected, he pledged to work towards helping members secure funding for training.

On the issue of expatriates occupying jobs meant for Nigerians, Gindeh noted that the expatriate quota system in the aviation sector is not new but called for stricter monitoring by the government, operators, and NAAPE to ensure compliance with regulations.

Speaking on aviation safety, Gindeh, who has worked with the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) for over two years, emphasized the importance of adhering to basic safety practices and pledged to scale up safety advocacy across the industry.

He also promised to intensify membership drives for Nigerians working with foreign airlines, stressing that collaboration and outreach are key to unionizing workers.

Gindeh said his vision for NAAPE is anchored on three pillars: advocacy and welfare for members, enhanced safety and professional development, and unity and modernization.
“I ask for your trust. I ask for your vote. Together, we will build a NAAPE respected by airlines, government, and the industry at large,” he said.