The National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE) has introduced a groundbreaking Loss of Licence Insurance scheme for Nigerian pilots and aircraft engineers. The initiative represents a significant advancement in protecting aviation professionals against career-ending medical or physical incapacity.
A statement signed by Public Relations Officer, Engr. Blessing Ahmadu explained that the licence insurance plan was developed in partnership with First Standard Insurance Brokers to safeguard members who lose their professional licences due to medical reasons or other qualifying conditions.
Why the Licence Insurance
The plan offers financial compensation to pilots and engineers affected by such setbacks, ensuring they maintain financial stability while recovering or transitioning to new opportunities.
According to NAAPE President, Captain Bunmi Gindeh, the Association reached the decision after extensive consultations with aviation stakeholders. He stated that the move reflects NAAPE’s long-standing commitment to member welfare and professional stability within Nigeria’s aviation industry.
“Loss of Licence insurance for aviation professionals is a global standard,” Captain Gindeh said. “Pilots and engineers face occupational risks that can suddenly end their careers. This licence insurance initiative ensures that no professional is left without financial support if they become medically unfit to perform their duties.”
He added that the programme is designed not only to support individuals but also to strengthen the entire aviation sector. “By introducing this coverage in Nigeria, NAAPE is protecting professionals and their families while promoting higher safety standards. When pilots and engineers know their careers are financially protected, they can focus fully on maintaining operational excellence,” he noted.
Captain Gindeh further revealed that NAAPE is working to make the licence insurance policy affordable and accessible to all categories of aviation professionals, including those in charter and private operations. The Association, he said, aims to standardise professional welfare across both public and private aviation sectors, ensuring that every qualified professional enjoys equal protection.
In his remarks, NAAPE Deputy President, Engr. Mudi Muhammad, commended the initiative as a major leap in professional welfare for Nigerian aviation workers. “We have seen too many colleagues face financial hardship after losing their licences because of unforeseen medical issues,” he said. “This licence insurance programme ensures that no pilot or engineer will face such challenges alone. It provides a dependable safety net that every aviation professional deserves.”
The plan has received widespread commendation from industry observers, who described it as a landmark step that aligns with global best practices in aviation labour protection. They noted that licence insurance is a standard benefit in developed aviation economies and that NAAPE’s proactive effort will inspire confidence among professionals in Nigeria’s aviation workforce.
Industry analysts also observed that this move comes at a time when discussions around pilot health, medical standards, and regulatory oversight are gaining public attention. NAAPE’s introduction of licence insurance therefore reinforces trust in the system by prioritising both the safety and welfare of critical aviation personnel.
Details on enrolment, eligibility, and premium structures will be released in the coming weeks. NAAPE will conduct nationwide sensitisation workshops to educate pilots and engineers about the new licence insurance programme, its benefits, and the registration process.
The Association reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the professional and economic well-being of all members while contributing to the overall growth and safety of Nigeria’s aviation industry. Through this licence insurance initiative, NAAPE continues to demonstrate leadership in ensuring that Nigerian pilots and aircraft engineers remain among the most protected and respected professionals in the global aviation community.
