In a landmark move aimed at securing the future of Nigerian aviation professionals, the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE) has officially launched a Loss-of-Licence Insurance Scheme, designed to provide financial relief to pilots and engineers who may lose their professional licences due to medical or physical incapacitation.
The initiative, unveiled in partnership with First Standard Insurance Brokers, marks a major milestone in NAAPE’s long-standing commitment to the welfare and protection of its members. The announcement was made public in a statement signed by Engr. Blessing Ahmadu, Public Relations Officer of NAAPE, describing the scheme as a “lifesaving cushion” for members whose careers may be unexpectedly disrupted by medical conditions that render them unfit to fly or maintain aircraft.
A Lifeline for Aviation Professionals
Speaking on the significance of the programme, NAAPE President, Capt. Bunmi Gindeh, described the insurance launch as “a proactive and humane intervention” that brings Nigeria’s aviation welfare system closer to global standards.
“Loss of licence insurance is an internationally recognised welfare standard in the aviation sector. Every pilot and engineer understands the risk of sudden medical incapacity, and this policy provides the needed safety net when such unforeseen situations occur,”
Capt. Gindeh stated.
He explained that the scheme provides a structured compensation plan for affected professionals, ensuring they and their families are not left financially stranded in the event of permanent or temporary licence suspension.
Scope and Eligibility
The new policy covers all categories of NAAPE members across both public and private aviation operations — including pilots, aircraft maintenance engineers, and other certified technical staff.
NAAPE noted that the insurance will be accessible to members in all sectors — from airline operations and cargo services to private jet and helicopter operators. Details of enrolment procedures, eligibility criteria, and premium payment structures are expected to be communicated in the coming weeks.
The association has also disclosed plans to launch nationwide sensitisation workshops to educate members on the benefits of the scheme, as well as its claim process and legal framework.
A Strategic Step Toward Industry Stability
Aviation analysts and stakeholders have hailed the development as a “strategic welfare innovation” that could significantly improve morale within the sector. According to them, the policy is not just about financial support — it also reinforces the broader goals of aviation safety, regulatory compliance, and workforce sustainability.
Experts noted that aviation professionals face unique risks that can instantly affect their employability, with medical fitness being a strict regulatory requirement. Thus, an insurance buffer of this nature ensures that highly skilled personnel remain supported even in cases of unforeseen incapacity.
A senior aviation analyst, Engr. Tunde Ajayi, praised NAAPE’s foresight, saying:
“This initiative is a model of forward-thinking leadership. It mirrors what is obtainable in advanced aviation economies and demonstrates NAAPE’s commitment to global best practices.”
Aligning with Global Standards
The Loss-of-Licence Insurance aligns with international aviation welfare norms established by major professional bodies such as the International Federation of Air Line Pilots’ Associations (IFALPA) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), which encourage member associations to provide structured insurance systems for aviation professionals.
By adopting this model, NAAPE not only enhances the financial security of its members but also strengthens Nigeria’s position as a competitive aviation hub in Africa — ensuring that its workforce is motivated, supported, and compliant with global safety expectations.
NAAPE’s Continuing Commitment
Since its establishment, NAAPE has consistently advocated for policies that uphold the dignity, welfare, and professional excellence of aviation practitioners in Nigeria. This latest insurance policy follows several welfare-driven initiatives, including continuous training partnerships, professional certification support, and advocacy for fair employment practices across the industry.
NAAPE’s leadership has assured that the Loss-of-Licence Insurance will be continuously reviewed and improved to meet the evolving needs of the aviation workforce.
“Our members are the backbone of flight safety in Nigeria. We owe them every measure of protection possible — and this insurance scheme is a concrete expression of that commitment,” Capt. Gindeh reaffirmed.
The launch of NAAPE’s Loss-of-Licence Insurance Scheme represents more than just a welfare benefit; it is a forward-thinking strategy that balances compassion with professionalism. It sends a clear message that Nigeria’s aviation sector values its human capital and is willing to invest in long-term resilience and stability.
With the aviation industry continuing to evolve amid health and safety challenges, NAAPE’s innovation serves as a model for how professional associations can lead with empathy, foresight, and accountability.
The National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE) has launched a groundbreaking Loss-of-Licence Insurance Scheme to safeguard Nigerian pilots and engineers against financial hardship caused by medical incapacity. Learn how this initiative strengthens welfare and safety standards in Nigeria’s aviation industry.
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