The Chairman of Enugu East Local Government Area, Beloved-Dan Obi Anike, has presented certificates to 40 newly trained aviation professionals, reinforcing the state’s growing push to build a skilled workforce for its expanding air transport sector.
The graduates, trained at the Universal School of Aviation, form the second batch sponsored by the council, bringing the total number of beneficiaries to over 80.
The ceremony, held at the council headquarters in Nkwo Nike, comes amid ongoing aviation sector reforms driven by Governor Peter Mbah, including the launch of Enugu Air and upgrades at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport.
Speaking at the event, Anike described the programme as a strategic investment in human capital and economic growth.
“In Enugu State, we are witnessing a quantum expansion of the aviation ecosystem—through initiatives such as Enugu Air and the strategic upgrade of Akanu Ibiam International Airport into a modern, globally competitive hub… airports run not just on infrastructure, but on competence,” he said.
He emphasised that the initiative goes beyond certification, positioning it as a deliberate effort to build capacity and create opportunities.
“This is the essence of Human Capital Development 2.0—where training translates into transformation, and individuals become contributors to a thriving economy. Our objective is clear: To create jobs, to improve livelihoods, and to drive inclusive economic growth,” Anike added.
The training covered five key areas: Cabin Crew, Flight Dispatch, Air Ticketing, Aviation Management, and Travel Agency Management.
Also speaking, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Transport, representing the Commissioner for Transport, Hon. Ify Ugonabo, praised the council’s forward-thinking approach.
“I commend the Chairman of Enugu East LGA for his foresight and leadership. He has not only keyed into the One Youth, One Skill initiative but has deliberately identified aviation as a high-value opportunity sector and extended that opportunity to his people. This is exactly the kind of proactive leadership His Excellency encourages all local government chairmen across the state to emulate,” he said.
Industry stakeholders equally lauded the initiative. Regional Manager of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Hilary Umunna, said the programme would open doors for young professionals across the country.
“Coming here today, I saw young aspiring leaders in the aviation industry. I’m happy seeing that it is young people that were trained, and it gives them the opportunity to grow in the industry. That alone exceeded my expectation. This training opens these young people to opportunities not just in Enugu State but across the nation,” he said.
Another industry representative, Mr. Ifeanyi, described the council boss as a visionary leader.
“Your Chairman is a man of wisdom, vision, and a man on a mission. It takes leadership with vision to look beyond what is obtainable in his environment and think forward, and that is what your Chairman has done. This is the kind of leadership we need in Nigeria,” he stated.
Anike also called on aviation stakeholders to support the graduates with internships and job placements.
“I therefore respectfully call on aviation agencies, airlines, ground handling companies, travel operators, and regulatory bodies to open their doors for these graduands to undertake the mandatory internship and on-the-job training required for full professional integration. This is not just support—it is an investment in competence,” he said.
Addressing the graduates, the chairman charged them to seize the opportunity and excel in their careers.
“You are not just certificate holders—you are emerging professionals… As you step into the industry, remember—the sky is not your limit, it is your starting point,” he said.
