The Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT) in Zaria has commenced its annual training programs for aviation correspondents, aimed at equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively report on aviation-related matters.
The initiative, sponsored by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), seeks to bridge the knowledge gap among aviation correspondents, enabling them to better understand and communicate complex aviation concepts and terminology.
According to the Rector, Dr. Danjuma Ismaila, the training programs are designed to cater to various levels of expertise, including basic, advanced, management, and senior management, as well as a refresher course for airport and aviation correspondents.
Dr. Ismaila expressed gratitude to the NCAA for their support, emphasizing the importance of the program in enhancing the capabilities of aviation correspondents and integrating them into the aviation family.
As a leading aviation training organization in the country, NCAT has been serving major aviation agencies, including the NCAA, Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), and Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).
The college plays a vital role in providing critical training to aviation professionals, highlighting the safety-centric nature of the industry, which necessitates rigorous training and licensure for all personnel.
Chairman of LAAC, Idris Aloma, at the opening ceremony, expressed gratitude to the Director General of Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Chris Najomo, and the management of NCAT for their support in ensuring the programme’s success.
The training course, which marks a reaffirmation of the collective commitment to excellence, capacity building, and responsible journalism within the aviation sector, aims to strengthen professional ethics and explore new trends in global aviation.
Aloma noted that despite global economic fluctuations affecting the aviation industry, the programme has continued to run, underscoring its significance.
He emphasized that aviation correspondents play a vital role as a bridge between the industry and the public, narrating progress, challenges, and aspirations.
The global aviation industry has witnessed significant changes, with fluctuations in patronage, expectations, and realignments.
In Nigeria, more local airlines have received Air Operators’ Certificates, while others are being processed.
The Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development is also piloting a vision of investment in airports through concessions.
The LAAC chairman, appealed to stakeholders and aviation authorities to sustain their commitment to the overall development of the sector, stressing that Nigeria has opportunities to make progress in aviation development.
The training course is expected to equip journalists with the necessary skills and knowledge to report accurately and effectively on the aviation industry, which is undergoing rapid transformation driven by technology, sustainability goals, safety imperatives, and an increasingly interconnected world.
He expressed confidence that the training will boost professionalism in reportage and practice among aviation media practitioners and journalists.
The course is expected to provide a valuable learning experience for participants, who are encouraged to approach the training with curiosity, commitment, and an open mind.
