Captain Bunmi Gindeh of the National Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has been elected the new President of the National Association of Air Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE), ushering in a new era of leadership for one of Nigeria’s most influential aviation unions.
The keenly contested election took place on Friday in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital, where Capt. Gindeh polled 51 votes to defeat Engr. Francis Igwe of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), who secured 17 votes.
Other winners in the election included Engr. Mudi Muhammad of Arik Air, who emerged unopposed as National Deputy President, Edwin Udoh as Financial Secretary, and Blessing Ahmadu as Publicity Secretary. Adewale Adenugba was re-elected as the first trustee, while Michael Nicholas clinched the second trustee seat.
A Legacy to Build On
In his victory speech, Capt. Gindeh praised the outgoing administration led by Engr. Abednego Galadima for laying a solid foundation, particularly with the establishment of a training institute for the association.
“He performed well and we owe him a lot of gratitude. We will work very hard to utilize that facility to meet with international standards,” Gindeh said.
Key Priorities of His Administration
The newly elected NAAPE President outlined three core priorities for his administration:
- Standardized Contracts: pushing for uniform agreements across the industry to improve welfare and reduce disputes.
- Safety Advocacy: promoting international best practices in aviation safety.
- Institutional Development: upgrading the association’s secretariat and strengthening its operational capacity.
Addressing concerns raised during the campaign about his availability as a serving pilot, Gindeh assured members of his leadership style.
“I believe in teamwork and effective delegation. The strength of NAAPE lies in collective responsibility,” he said.
Support from Colleagues and Rivals
His deputy, Engr. Mudi Muhammad, described Gindeh’s victory as a turning point for NAAPE.
“He has a big vision for the association, particularly in expanding membership and giving pilots a stronger voice,” Muhammad remarked.
In a show of sportsmanship, Engr. Francis Igwe congratulated the new president and pledged his support in ensuring unity within the association.
Outgoing president Engr. Galadima also urged the new executive council to prioritize unity and inclusiveness in decision-making.
With Gindeh’s emergence, stakeholders in the aviation sector say NAAPE is poised for renewed vibrancy, especially in areas of safety advocacy and improved welfare for air professionals.
Captain Bunmi Gindeh of NSIB has been elected President of NAAPE after a decisive win in Uyo. He pledges standardized contracts, stronger safety advocacy, and institutional growth for Nigerian air pilots and engineers.
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