ATSSSAN urges Plateau govt to invest in construction of airports
The Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN) has urged the Plateau state government to invest in the construction of airports for overall development of the state.
He said the state remains Nigeria’s leading tourist destination if the right investment is put in place to boost its tourism, logistics and trade.
In his address at the 4th Quadrennial delegates conference of ATSSSAN held in Jos, the President of ATSSSAN Comrade Ahmadu Illitrus said he was aware that the state government has plans to invest in aviation and allied ventures and called for the translation of the plan into concrete action for the benefit of the state.
Ilitrus said there was opportunity yet to be tapped in the civil aviation infrastructure at Heipang – Yakuba Gowon Airport in Jos.
He assured that ATSSSAN will collaborate with the state government to conduct a civil aviation career exposition with a view to creating awareness amongst students and primary school pupils in the state about career prospects in the civil aviation industry.
The ATSSSAN President recalled that in the early 1980s, Plateau State Government had an aviation scholarship portfolio and indeed sponsored its qualified sons and daughters to study at the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology, Zaria.
He noted that it was the memories of those beautiful years that encourage ATSSSAN to again approach the State Government for support and partnership and without hesitation, having seen the value addition in the submission in terms of the benefit of the career exposition it will bring to young minds in Plateau State.
Illitrus noted that from the corridor of frugality and strict financial discipline, ATSSSAN saved resources that was used to liquidate the gratuity of all the workers of the secretariat adding that some of whom resigned their appointments willingly in pursuit of higher callings, while others left after a long period of dedicated service to ATSSSAN.
Plateau state Governor, who was represented by the Deputy, Mrs. Josephine Piyo said the conference theme: “Human Capital Needs of Civil Aviation in Nigeria: Challenges and Prospects” is both timely and strategic, affirming that Nigeria’s ability to remain competitive and meet international standards in the rapidly evolving aviation landscape rests significantly on the quality, competence and continuous development of its human capital.
The Governor said “This gathering presents another important opportunity to evaluate progress, strengthen strategies, and chart new pathways that will improve safety, service delivery, labour relations, and technological advancement across the aviation sector.
“Your thoughtful engagement with these critical issues demonstrates a deep sense of responsibility and unwavering commitment to building a more efficient, resilient, and future-ready aviation industry for our nation.” he told the delegates.