BY OLAPEJU OLUBI
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has commenced the maiden global edition of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Next Generation of Aviation Professionals (NGAP) programme as part of efforts to develop a skilled workforce capable of meeting the evolving demands of the aviation industry.
The four-day training, which began on July 20 at the FAAN Training School, will end on July 23, 2026.
It is aimed at equipping FAAN personnel with the knowledge and skills required to strengthen workforce development, attract and retain talent, promote career progression, and ensure effective succession planning across critical airport operations.
Participants were drawn from several departments, including Airport Operations, Aviation Security (AVSEC), Airport Rescue and Fire Fighting Services (ARFFS), Safety, Human Resources, Finance, Engineering, and other aviation-related units.
The programme aligns with ICAO’s Next Generation of Aviation Professionals initiative, which seeks to build a sustainable, competent and future-ready global aviation workforce capable of supporting the industry’s long-term growth.
Declaring the programme open on behalf of the Managing Director and Chief Executive of FAAN, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, the Director of Special Duties, Mrs. Obiageli Orah, reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to investing in human capital as a key pillar of operational excellence and sustainable development.
According to Orah, the aviation industry is undergoing rapid transformation, making continuous learning and skills development essential for professionals across the sector.
She said: “The aviation industry continues to evolve rapidly, making it imperative for professionals to continually acquire new knowledge and competencies to meet emerging challenges and global best practices.”
She urged participants to maximise the opportunity by actively engaging in the sessions and applying the knowledge acquired to improve service delivery across the Authority.
In her welcome address, the General Manager, Training and Human Resources Development, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Akinlade, described the programme as an important platform for both personal and professional development.
She encouraged participants to embrace the training by acquiring new competencies and using the experience to advance their careers while supporting FAAN’s succession planning and talent retention objectives.
Akinlade said: “Developing and retaining skilled professionals remains critical to the Authority’s continued growth and operational excellence.”
The NGAP Global Maiden Edition has brought together employees from various directorates and operational units, providing an avenue for knowledge exchange, collaboration and leadership development.
FAAN said the programme features interactive sessions facilitated by experienced aviation professionals and subject matter experts, with a focus on strengthening institutional capacity and ensuring the long-term sustainability of Nigeria’s aviation industry through a highly skilled and future-ready workforce.
Olapeju is a journalist and aviation reporter.
