A fresh group of 20 former agitators from the Niger Delta Region has embarked on a rigorous five-week training program, marking a significant step in their journey to become certified Aircraft Maintenance Engineers. This endeavor is part of the larger effort by the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) to equip individuals with valuable skills. Following successful classroom training, these trainees will undergo a demanding 12-month on-the-job training (OJT) experience.
The successful graduation of the initial 20 Aircraft Maintenance Engineers on October 31, 2023, marked a significant achievement within the PAP Aviation Training Scheme, illustrating the program’s commitment to empowering the Niger Delta community. This training initiative aligns with the broader goal of meeting the growing demands of the global aviation industry by providing skilled professionals.
Charging the beneficiaries in his goodwill message on Monday in Lagos at a Program Inauguration Event, the PAP Interim Administrator, Major General Barry Ndiomu (Rtd) noted that the flag-off of training for the second batch is another “promise Kept” by his administration.
Ndiomu who was represented by PAP’s Head of Reintegration, Mr. Wilfred Musa, posited that currently, the global aviation industry is expanding at a rapid pace and manpower development is being emphasised by both the industry operators and regulators.
He reiterated that by this specialised program, the PAP has become a critical supplier of strategic manpower to the global aviation industry.
He added that the PAP is poised to sustain this momentum of creating cutting-edge opportunities for the career advancement of Niger Deltans. He added that it is in line with President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” for the all important Niger Delta region and Nigeria.
Ndiomu further charged the beneficiaries to prove naysayers wrong who suggest that the program is a waste of resources, by striving to be the best. “You represent not just the future of the Niger Delta, but the future of Nigeria and the global aviation industry,” he said. “The PAP has provided you with all you require to succeed on this journey, what you owe us in return is excellence”, he added.
In a separate remark, Managing Director of Alom Aviation Services Ltd, Captain Austin Omame, commended the PAP Interim Administrator for pushing on with the Aviation Resuscitation Program, adding that with their OJT/Type rating licences in their hands, they can secure aviation jobs anywhere in the world.
Onyeama Kingsley, one of the beneficiaries who spoke on behalf of the second batch trainees, promised that they would reciprocate the efforts of the PAP with dedication and hard work.
