NAAPE Upholds Gender Equality, Advocates for Women's....

The President of the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE), Engr Abednego Galadima says the association remained one of the few unions in the aviation sector that does not discriminate but continued to advance the cause of women in carrying out their duties as in their world of work as neither women Pilots, Women Engineers and male Pilots, and Engineers.

Galadima spoke in commemoration of International Women’s Day 2025, the female arm of the National Aircraft, Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE) held an event to celebrate the achievements of women in the aviation industry and accelerate action towards gender equality.

Galadima represented by the general secretary of NAAPE, Comrade Olayinka Abioye, said they have have been supporting women and defended them against any form of harassment and violence and ensured gender balancing.

He said NAAPE has been involved in canvassing for the full implementation of Convention 190 of the international Labour Organisation (ILO) which specifically enforces the rights of women against any form of molestation, harassment (in whatever form), abuse and violence as any of these vices constitute a breach of the rights of women which invariably may lead to Psychological, physical and sexual health, dignity and family, social environmental concerns.

“Though NAAPE has recently rejoined the International Transport Workers International Transport Federation (ITF), we have participated effectively at both the local and International levels and duly recognized for our strategic position.

He emphasized the union’s commitment to advancing the cause of women and ensuring gender balancing in the industry.

Galadima urged female professionals to participate fully in labour matters and assured them of support from the union.

“As we say in labour parlance, “No Women, No Controversy. As a gender sensitive leader of a gender friendly union, NAAPE is ready and willing to support your cause at any time and cooperate with you on all occasions as the need may arise”.

At the Nigeria Labour Congress level, we have ensured the full participation of our women, supporting them morally and financially and we intend to do even more as we conclude this special occasion”

The event, with the theme “Accelerate Action towards Gender Equality,” brought together pilots, crew executives, aircraft maintenance engineers, career mentors, aviation security, airport officers, and ground handling companies to recognize the contributions of women in the industry.

Head of NAAPE’s Commission, Engr. Kyola Dyaji, drew attention to the achievements of female professionals who have shattered the ceilings in a male-dominated sector.

In her paper presentation, Deputy General Manager of Air Traffic Management/State Safety Programme, NCAA, Mrs. Kate Nnanna-Ibemgbo, stressed that gender equality is a fundamental human right and necessary for a peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable world.

She appealed to colleagues to mentor the younger generation and forge female aviators’ empowerment through coaching and mentoring.

Managing Director of Mamaj Aviation Consult, Joy Ogbebo, emphasized the role of mentorship in accelerating gender equality, highlighting the need for education, information, empowerment, and policy changes to promote women’s growth.

“We need to keep advocating against policies that discriminate against women. Having a male and female in the same position but having disparity in pay discourages women”, she added.