December 16, (THEWILL) – In preparation for the increased air traffic during the festive season, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria has commenced a competency revalidation program for over 200 aircraft marshallers across airports nationwide.
The initiative, launched under the directive of FAAN’s Managing Director, Mrs. Olubunmi Oluwaseun Kuku, aims to enhance safety during aircraft ground movements and taxiing operations.
The training, conducted in partnership with FCI International Centre of Technical Development, aligns with the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) advisory circular (NCAA-AC-ARD049) on Airside Safety Management.
It focuses on minimizing apron-related incidents and accidents while equipping marshallers with updated skills and safety protocols.
Speaking during one of the sessions held at Port Harcourt International Airport, FAAN’s Director of Human Resources, Dr. Emiola Olatubosun Luqman, reiterated the significance of the program.
He noted that the training is part of FAAN’s efforts to close technical training gaps and ensure safe and secure air transport services during the Yuletide and beyond.
“The management of FAAN is committed to preparing its workforce to meet global safety standards. This training is crucial in equipping our marshallers with the tools needed for safe aircraft guidance and ground operations,” Luqman stated.
The Managing Director of FCI International, Mr. Fortune Idu, highlighted the uniqueness of this edition of the training.
According to him, the program extended beyond basic marshalling signals to include a comprehensive assessment of apron-related work hazards, updates to standard operating procedures, and the introduction of a new logging system to improve efficiency.
“This training ensures our marshallers are not only skilled in their primary duties but are also well-versed in hazard identification and mitigation. The goal is to make them safer and more efficient in their roles,” Mr. Idu explained.
Participants at the program commended FAAN’s leadership for addressing their professional needs and providing tools to enhance their performance.
They, however, urged the agency to broaden their career progression opportunities by creating more advanced training programs and technical exchanges.
In response, Mr. Idu revealed that FCI International has been advocating for the establishment of a Marshallers’ Consultative Body to promote professional conduct and foster respect for the role.
He added that the proposal has already been endorsed by the Acting Director General of NCAA.
Mr. Idu also praised Capt. Chris Najomo, the Acting Director General of NCAA, for his commitment to aviation development in Nigeria.
He emphasized the need for Capt. Najomo’s confirmation as the substantive Director General, noting that his leadership is crucial for the successful implementation of initiatives that enhance the aviation sector.
“The aviation industry requires visionary leadership to sustain the foundation being laid. Capt. Najomo has demonstrated his dedication to creating an inclusive and progressive aviation system in Nigeria,” Mr. Idu said.
Anthony Awunor, is a business correspondent who holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Linguistics (UNILAG). He is also an alumnus of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria Kaduna State. He lives in Lagos.
