BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
The Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN) has called on the Plateau State Government to prioritise investment in airport development as a catalyst for economic growth, tourism expansion and improved trade logistics across the state.
Speaking at the 4th Quadrennial Delegates Conference of ATSSSAN in Jos, the association’s President, Comrade Ahmadu Illitrus, said Plateau State remains Nigeria’s foremost tourism destination, stressing that strategic investment in aviation infrastructure would unlock its vast economic potential.
He noted that the state government had indicated interest in aviation and allied ventures, urging authorities to translate those plans into concrete action for the overall benefit of the people.
According to him, there are significant opportunities yet to be harnessed within the civil aviation infrastructure at the Heipang–Yakubu Gowon Airport in Jos.
Illitrus assured that ATSSSAN is ready to partner with the Plateau State Government to drive human capital development in the sector.
He disclosed plans to collaborate with the state in organising a civil aviation career exposition aimed at creating awareness among students, including those in primary and secondary schools, about career opportunities within the aviation industry.
Recalling the early 1980s, the ATSSSAN President said Plateau State once operated an aviation scholarship scheme that sponsored qualified indigenes to study at the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria.
He described the programme as a landmark investment in human capital that produced skilled professionals who contributed meaningfully to the aviation sector.
“It is the memories of those beautiful years that encourage ATSSSAN to once again approach the Plateau State Government for support and partnership,” Illitrus said, adding that the proposed career exposition would add immense value by inspiring young minds and positioning them for future careers in civil aviation.
He further disclosed that through prudence and strict financial discipline, ATSSSAN was able to save resources which were used to fully liquidate the gratuities of all secretariat workers.
He explained that some of the affected staff resigned voluntarily in pursuit of higher callings, while others exited after long years of dedicated service to the association.
The Plateau State Governor, represented at the conference by the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Josephine Piyo, described the theme of the conference, “Human Capital Needs of Civil Aviation in Nigeria: Challenges and Prospects,” as timely and strategic.
According to her, Nigeria’s ability to remain competitive and meet international aviation standards depends largely on the quality, competence and continuous development of its human capital.
She said, “This gathering presents another important opportunity to evaluate progress, strengthen strategies, and chart new pathways that will improve safety, service delivery, labour relations, and technological advancement across the aviation sector.”
Commending the delegates, the governor added, “Your thoughtful engagement with these critical issues demonstrates a deep sense of responsibility and unwavering commitment to building a more efficient, resilient, and future-ready aviation industry for our nation.”
Olapeju is a journalist and aviation reporter.
