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Nigerian Aviation Regulator and Labour Union Deepen Collaboration for Sectoral Progress Nigerian Aviation Regulator and Labour Union Deepen Collaboration for Sectoral Progress

The Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN) has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a stronger partnership with the nation's aviation regulator, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), following a strategic working visit to the Director General of Civil Aviation, Captain Chris Najomo. This engagement underscores the shared vision of both organisations to enhance stability, operational efficiency, and workforce development within Nigeria’s aviation industry.

During the meeting, which was described as cordial and professional, Comrade John Ogbe, National President of ATSSSAN, emphasized the importance of sustained collaboration between aviation workers and the regulatory authority. He commended Captain Najomo’s proactive leadership, his strong focus on safety, and his inclusive approach to engaging stakeholders. Ogbe noted that the growing synergy between the NCAA and ATSSSAN is playing a pivotal role in positioning Nigeria’s aviation sector to meet both domestic and international standards.

Ogbe also reiterated the union’s readiness to support reforms and policies that aim to promote workforce development, operational excellence, and sustainable aviation practices. However, he highlighted the necessity of continuous dialogue to address emerging challenges and safeguard the welfare of aviation workers. This, he stated, is crucial to ensuring that the aviation industry remains resilient and adaptive in the face of global and local sectoral shifts.

In his remarks, Captain Najomo expressed his appreciation for ATSSSAN’s role in maintaining industrial harmony within the aviation sector. He reassured the union of the NCAA’s commitment to fostering open communication and deeper cooperation. According to Najomo, this partnership is essential for strengthening safety oversight, encouraging innovation, and ensuring long-term stability across the industry.

The meeting also reflected on the critical role of organised labour in supporting the steady growth of Nigeria’s aviation sector. Both leaders agreed that a closer partnership between the NCAA and ATSSSAN would continue to drive progress, improve operational efficiency, and enhance the sector’s overall reputation. By working together, they believe Nigeria’s aviation industry can become a model of safety, efficiency, and economic resilience both regionally and globally.

ATSSSAN has long been a vocal advocate for the welfare of aviation workers and the development of the industry. The union has consistently supported initiatives that align with global best practices, including workforce training, safety standards, and sustainable operational policies. The union’s collaboration with the NCAA has been widely credited with helping to sustain industrial harmony, a critical factor in the sector’s ability to meet growing passenger and cargo demands.

Captain Najomo further highlighted the NCAA’s ongoing efforts to not only meet international safety and operational benchmarks but also to encourage innovation across the industry. He noted that the regulator’s open-door policy reflects its commitment to engaging all stakeholders, including labour unions, in shaping the future of Nigerian aviation. This inclusive approach ensures that all voices are heard in the decision-making process, fostering a sense of shared responsibility and trust.

Both parties expressed confidence that their sustained institutional partnership will contribute significantly to building a safer, more efficient, and economically robust aviation sector in Nigeria. As the global aviation landscape continues to evolve, the collaboration between the NCAA and ATSSSAN is expected to serve as a foundation for addressing challenges and seizing opportunities that will define the future of air transport in the country.

For Nigeria’s aviation professionals, this strengthened relationship between the regulator and organised labour signals a renewed focus on workforce welfare, operational standards, and sectoral sustainability. By aligning efforts, both institutions aim to create an industry that is not only resilient but also capable of driving economic growth and connecting Nigeria to global markets with confidence and reliability.