Nigeria’s Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, FAAN, has launched the International Civil Aviation Organization’s Next Generation of Aviation Professionals Global Maiden Edition, as the airport operator seeks to strengthen workforce development and prepare employees for evolving demands in the aviation sector.
The four-day programme, which began on July 20 at the FAAN Training School and runs until July 23, is designed to develop technical and leadership skills among employees across airport operations, aviation security, airport rescue and fire-fighting services, engineering, finance, human resources, safety and other operational units.
The initiative forms part of ICAO’s NGAP programme, which aims to help member states build a sustainable pipeline of skilled aviation professionals amid growing concerns over global workforce shortages and an ageing talent base.
Opening the programme on behalf of FAAN Managing Director and Chief Executive Olubunmi Kuku, Director of Special Duties Obiageli Orah said continuous investment in workforce development was essential to maintaining operational excellence and supporting the long-term growth of Nigeria’s aviation industry.
“The aviation industry is evolving rapidly, making it imperative for professionals to continually acquire new knowledge and competencies to meet emerging challenges and align with global best practices,” Orah said.
She urged participants to apply the knowledge gained from the programme to improve operational efficiency and service delivery across the authority.
General Manager, Training and Human Resources Development, Oluwatoyin Akinlade, said the programme would support FAAN’s succession planning and talent retention strategy by equipping employees with skills needed for future leadership and technical roles.
The training brings together staff from multiple directorates and operational departments and includes interactive sessions led by aviation specialists and subject matter experts.
The programme comes as aviation authorities worldwide face increasing pressure to attract and retain skilled professionals to support rising air travel demand, digital transformation, enhanced safety requirements and the adoption of new technologies. ICAO has identified workforce development as a strategic priority to ensure the long-term sustainability of the global aviation industry.
FAAN operates Nigeria’s federal airports and is responsible for airport management, safety, security and infrastructure across the country’s aviation network.
