Aviation journalist and industry stakeholder, Mr Wole Shadare, has called for increased investment in manpower development, technology and infrastructure to position Nigeria’s aviation industry for greater growth and global competitiveness.
Shadare made the call while speaking on the Ask the Expert segment of Trade FM’s Breakfast Business Briefing, where he also discussed the forthcoming second edition of the Nigeria Aviation Hall of Fame.
According to him, the Nigeria Aviation Hall of Fame was established to recognise individuals who have made exceptional and lasting contributions to the development of the aviation industry in Nigeria.
He said the initiative was inspired by similar aviation halls of fame he encountered during his travels to countries including the United States, Thailand and Switzerland.
Shadare explained that the initiative was conceived to preserve the legacies of aviation professionals and ensure that their contributions are remembered by future generations.
He said a committee of experienced and knowledgeable aviation professionals was established to independently select those to be inducted into the Hall of Fame, noting that honourees must meet strict criteria and demonstrate exceptional achievements.
The second edition of the Nigeria Aviation Hall of Fame is scheduled to hold on Friday, September 4, with 18 distinguished individuals expected to be inducted.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, alongside aviation agency heads and other stakeholders, is expected to attend the event.
Shadare said the recognition of outstanding professionals would also serve as an inspiration to young Nigerians aspiring to build careers in the aviation industry.
According to him, young people can surpass the achievements of previous generations, particularly because they now have access to technology, information and other tools that were unavailable to many of the industry pioneers.
He, however, acknowledged that the high cost of aviation training remains a major challenge for young Nigerians seeking careers in the sector.
Speaking on the development of the industry, Shadare said Nigeria still has significant gaps in aviation infrastructure and technology despite progress recorded over the years.
He noted that while the country’s airspace remains safe, there are still challenges relating to communication systems, airport infrastructure and the deployment of modern technology.
According to him, some equipment being used in the sector has become outdated, making it difficult for Nigeria to compete effectively with some of its peers, including other African countries.
Shadare called for more revenue generated from the aviation sector to be reinvested in infrastructure, equipment and human capital development.
He also said Nigeria must begin to prepare for emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, stressing that the country first needs to strengthen its basic aviation technology infrastructure.
On the industry’s biggest opportunity, Shadare identified manpower as Nigeria’s greatest asset.
He said the aviation industry requires highly trained and competent professionals to operate and maintain its increasingly complex systems and equipment.
According to him, the sector must prioritise the training and development of qualified professionals while reducing the influence of mediocrity and political considerations in appointments.
Shadare urged young Nigerians aspiring to join the aviation industry to remain focused and pursue opportunities in areas such as piloting, aircraft engineering, aviation management and journalism.
He described aviation as a highly rewarding industry that offers professionals opportunities for career growth, global exposure and international mobility.
However, he expressed concern over the migration of highly skilled Nigerian aviation professionals to other countries, attributing the trend largely to better salaries, incentives and working conditions abroad.
Shadare said improving remuneration and creating better opportunities for professionals would be crucial to retaining skilled manpower and strengthening Nigeria’s aviation industry.
