Aviation stakeholders have commended women in the industry for resilience and professional commitment at the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE) International Women’s Day celebration.
The event was held on March 7, 2026, in Lagos with a strong call for mentorship, inclusion, and greater opportunities for women across Nigeria’s aviation industry.
The Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, represented by the Deputy General Manager, One Stop Shop, Mrs. Ujueze Jumbo, at the event commended women professionals in aviation for their resilience and commitment to mentoring younger generations.
She described the association’s annual celebration as a vital platform for advocacy and empowerment, noting that NAAPE has consistently created opportunities for women to engage, learn and inspire one another.
According to her, the theme of the 2026 celebration, “Give to Gain,” highlights the importance of mentorship and guidance for young girls who aspire to build careers in aviation.
“Women are naturally givers; givers of life and opportunities. Through this event, you are providing direction to younger generations who wish to pursue careers in aviation”, she said.
Jumbo also praised female pilots and engineers for their contributions to the growth and smooth operations of the aviation industry, emphasising that the sector depends heavily on their expertise and professionalism.
“Without pilots and engineers, the aviation sector would literally not function. You have distinguished yourselves in your professional calling by delivering world-class service at all times”, she added.
She further assured that FAAN would continue to strengthen its partnership with NAAPE to promote greater achievements and advance the aviation industry in Nigeria.
Similarly, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), Engr. Umar Farouk, represented by the Acting General Manager, Standards, Mrs. Hauwa Musa, said International Women’s Day provides an opportunity to reflect on the progress made in advancing gender inclusion within the aviation sector.
She noted that while aviation was historically viewed as a male-dominated field, women are now increasingly occupying critical roles across the aviation value chain as pilots, engineers, air traffic controllers, safety specialists and aviation managers.
“In Nigeria today, women are not just participating in aviation; they are leading, innovating and shaping the future of our industry”, she said.
Musa added that NAMA takes pride in the growing number of female professionals contributing to the safe and efficient management of Nigeria’s airspace.
“Our female air traffic controllers, engineers and technical personnel perform some of the most demanding tasks in aviation with exceptional competence and dedication”, she noted.
She stressed that the achievements of women in aviation demonstrate that success in the industry is defined by skill, knowledge, discipline and determination rather than gender.
However, she acknowledged that women remain underrepresented in several technical and leadership roles globally, emphasising the need for deliberate efforts to bridge the gap through mentorship, professional training and supportive workplace policies.
Musa also highlighted the importance of inspiring young girls to see aviation as a viable career path, noting that representation plays a crucial role in expanding their aspirations.
“Young girls across Nigeria must be able to look at the aviation industry and see a future within it. They must see women flying aircraft, maintaining complex aviation systems, managing air traffic operations and leading major aviation institutions”, she said.
She commended NAAPE for organising the event, describing the association as a key driver of professionalism, technical excellence and collaboration within Nigeria’s aviation sector.
According to her, the aviation ecosystem functions best when all stakeholders—including pilots, engineers, air traffic controllers, regulators and service providers work together to maintain the highest standards of safety and operational efficiency.
The event brought together aviation professionals and stakeholders to celebrate the achievements of women in the sector while encouraging stronger collaboration and commitment to building a more inclusive aviation industry in Nigeria.