Captain Bunmi Gindeh of the National Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has emerged victorious in the National Association of Air Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE) presidential election.
The polls, held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, ended with Gindeh securing 51 votes against his rival, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) aircraft engineer Francis Igwe, who polled 17. The result reflects a decisive choice by members for a new leadership direction.
The elections, conducted on Friday, September 27, also produced other key executives. Aircraft engineer Mudi Muhammad of Arik Air emerged as national deputy president unopposed.
Adewale Adenugba retained his position as first trustee. Additionally, Edwin Udoh was elected financial secretary, Blessing Ahmadu as publicity secretary, and Michael Nicholas as second trustee. Together, they will form the new NAAPE leadership team.
In his acceptance speech, Gindeh praised the outgoing president, Engineer Abednego Galadima, for significant strides made during his tenure.
He highlighted the establishment of a training institute as a landmark achievement, promising to expand its potential to meet international standards. “We owe the outgoing administration deep gratitude,” he stated, emphasizing continuity alongside reform.
Reflecting on his campaign, the new NAAPE president credited teamwork for his victory. According to him, his deputy president played a crucial role in mobilising chapters nationwide.
“Our message was simple member welfare, better contracts, safety advocacy, and modernising our secretariat,” Gindeh explained. He stressed that standardised contracts across the aviation sector, similar to international practices, would be central to his administration’s agenda.
On union functionality, Gindeh acknowledged concerns about pilots’ limited time for union duties. However, he noted that delegation would ensure smooth operations.
Drawing from his own experience as an NCAA officer seconded to the NSIB, he pledged to balance responsibilities effectively while empowering his team to drive progress.
Deputy president Muhammad expressed delight at the partnership, noting his admiration for Gindeh’s vision. He added that one priority would be expanding pilot membership within NAAPE, a segment currently underrepresented.
“The outgoing leadership laid a good foundation, but our new mission is to attract more pilots and strengthen the association,” he stated enthusiastically.
Meanwhile, Igwe, who lost the contest, conceded gracefully. He congratulated Gindeh and pledged his support to sustain NAAPE’s unity. His sportsmanship drew commendations from members who emphasised the importance of collective strength over electoral rivalry.
Galadima, the immediate past president, also urged the new executives to focus on solidarity and continuity.
The victory of Gindeh has raised expectations within the aviation labour community. Industry observers believe his background at NSIB gives him unique insight into safety concerns affecting pilots and engineers.
In addition, his promise to modernise NAAPE’s secretariat signals a shift toward professionalising union administration. Improved digital systems, record-keeping, and member engagement are expected under his watch. Such reforms, analysts argue, could strengthen NAAPE’s negotiating power in the ever-changing aviation environment.
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