By Dickson Omobola

National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers, NAAPE, has urged its newly elected National Executive Council to operate with diligence, transparency and a spirit of collaboration, saying their decisions will directly impact the safety and efficiency of air travel in the country.

NAAPE described its members as the backbone of flight safety, operational excellence and technological advancement in the country’s aviation sector, saying the council must protect members’ interests, engage constructively with stakeholders and foster professional development.

A statement by NAAPE’s Public Relations Officer, Blessing Ahmadu, said the association made the call in Abuja as the National Executive Council convened for its inaugural meeting.

The statement reads: “President, Captain Bunmi Gindeh, hailed the meeting, saying it marks a significant milestone and sets the stage for a period of strategic, forward-looking leadership dedicated to transforming the professional landscape for pilots and engineers across Nigeria.

“The President underscored the critical role of NAAPE’s members as the backbone of flight safety, operational excellence, and technological advancement in Nigerian aviation. The message to the new council was unambiguous: they are the engine room tasked with delivering tangible results in four key areas—protecting members’ interests, engaging constructively with stakeholders, fostering professional development, and ensuring institutional sustainability.

“Addressing the newly constituted body, the President offered his congratulations, noting that their emergence is a testament to the trust and confidence of the membership. He emphasised that members had been chosen not only for their expertise and experience but also for their dedication to the ideals of NAAPE.

“He added that the tasks ahead require wisdom, unity, and unwavering commitment. The council was urged to operate with diligence, transparency, and a spirit of collaboration, prioritising the collective good over individual interests.”