NCAA DG Advocates Greater Sensitization of Youths At Grassroots To Secure Industry Future - By Tumininu Ayerin

Capt. Muhtar Usman, DG, NCAA

The Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Capt. Muhtar Usman has called for greater sensitization and awareness of youths at the grassroots as a way of raising future aviation professionals to take over from the ageing workforce in the air transport sector.

Speaking at the Grand Finale of the 8th National Travel Essay Competition and Air Transport Youth Empowerment Summit (NTEC 2017) organized by Travel & Business News, the DG said: “The future will be brighter for air transport if we introduce fascinating reach out programmes that can attract the younger ones into the profession,” adding that such programmes will perhaps shape their mentality, stimulate interest and career in aviation.

In line with the theme of NTEC 2017, “RAISING FUTURE GIANTS FOR THE AIR TRAVEL SECTOR,” the DG, who was represented by Capt. Dapo Williams, a Safety Inspector with the CAA, stressed that: “Competitions like this should be regular and sustained through active support by government, corporate organizations and well meaning Nigerians to bring the best out of our youths.” He therefore assured that the Authority will not hesitate to render their support in any way possible to keep this dream alive.

“All that is needed in our clime to raise our future giants is very simple, if only we can create more forums for sensitization that will ignite their passion for the profession. Encourage them to build careers in aviation related courses like Piloting, Air Traffic Control, Aeronautical Engineering etc. Increase in awareness through the media is vital as this will go a long way in stimulating their interest in aviation thereby paving way for them to pursue their dreams in various fields,” Capt. Muhtar disclosed.

The DG went on to state that “Government should also make concerted effort in ensuring that air travel is incorporated into both primary and secondary school curriculum, thereby stimulate youngsters at the early stage. We can also raise future giants if our parents support the drive by encouraging our children to attend/participate in aviation related workshops so as to stimulate and sustain their interest in the sector.