Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has called on stakeholders in the aviation sector to deliberately groom and empower young people to counteract a looming shortage of skilled manpower and the increasing retirement of veteran professionals in the industry.
Speaking through the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Obiageli Orah, the Minister delivered his message at the finale of the 14th National Travel Essay Competition (NTEC 2025) and Youth Empowerment Seminar, held at the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) Training Centre in Lagos on May 24, 2025.
“One of the critical challenges facing the industry is the ageing and retiring workforce leading to widened knowledge gaps and operational issues,” Keyamo’s message read. “This programme is designed to make aviation appealing to the younger generation while encouraging them to develop interest in taking up a career in the industry.”
Themed “Navigating Career Entry Challenges to Secure the Future,” this year’s event gathered participants from both secondary and tertiary institutions across the country. The aim, organisers said, was not only to spotlight emerging aviation thinkers but also to provide a platform for engaging with real-world topics like airline safety and the integration of artificial intelligence in air transport systems.
Winners in the tertiary category included Olatunji Taiwo of the University of Lagos, who took first place and a N150,000 prize. She was followed by Patrick Onyekachi Favour of Lagos State University, who won N100,000 for second place, while Vincent Ikechukwu Maduka of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka came third, earning N50,000.
In the secondary school category, Abesan Senior High School emerged as the standout institution. Abdulazeez Ajoke clinched the top prize of N100,000, while her schoolmate, Akinyoola Morenikeji, secured third place and a N50,000 reward. Patrick David from Abiolu Comprehensive College, Igando, finished second, going home with N70,000.
NTEC founder Ewos Iroro commended the participants’ passion and intellectual insight, while also pointing to success stories that have emerged from the programme since its inception in 2009. He referenced Miss Adeola Peace, a former NTEC laureate, who has recently completed a master’s degree in aeronautical engineering—proof, he said, of the initiative’s long-term impact.
Representing NCAA’s Director-General, Captain Chris Najomo, at the event was Regional Manager for Lagos, Olubukola Teriba. Teriba stressed the strategic importance of nurturing young talent, stating, “This year’s theme reflects the shared concerns of countless young Nigerians who seek to make their mark in aviation, tourism, and the wider transport ecosystem but often face steep barriers to entry.”
According to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), Africa could face a shortage of 12,000 aviation professionals by 2030, with Nigeria accounting for a significant percentage due to aging personnel and limited pipeline programmes. Industry experts agree that early exposure, mentorship, and structured empowerment initiatives like NTEC are crucial to bridging the gap.
Obiageli Orah, speaking further on behalf of the Aviation Minister, underscored the need for institutional collaboration. “Government alone cannot shoulder this task. We need airlines, training institutions, and regulatory bodies to create internships, scholarships, and mentorship avenues that are intentional and inclusive.”
Beyond cash prizes, participants received mentorship and networking opportunities with industry executives, including representatives from Arik Air, Dana Airlines, and the Federal Ministry of Aviation. According to Iroro, more than 600 entries were received this year, and 32 finalists were shortlisted after rigorous review by an independent panel of aviation professionals.
The students, many attending an aviation seminar for the first time, expressed excitement about future career possibilities. “This experience has given me clarity,” said Vincent Maduka of UNN. “I now see a future for myself in aviation policy or safety regulation.”
Closing the ceremony, Teriba reaffirmed NCAA’s commitment to continuous youth engagement and announced plans for the establishment of a nationwide Aviation Career Week in partnership with tertiary institutions beginning next academic year. “This is only the beginning,” he said. “Our airspace must reflect the brilliance and ambition of the Nigerian youth.”
