Rector Nigerian College of Aviation Technology, Dr Danjuma A. Ismaila, has decried the institution’s wage profile as critically low and demotivating. He described the situation as the main reason poor wages trigger talent loss and the continued exit of trained professionals to other agencies offering better remuneration packages.
He made this known during an oversight visit to the College by Chairman House Committee on Aviation Technology, Honorable Tajudeen Kareem Abisodun. According to a statement signed by Director Information, Dr Jude Amadi, the committee, during a tour of NCAT’s facilities, was received by Dr Ismaila and his top management team, seize the opportunity to give an overview of NCAT’s key contributions to aviation manpower development.
The Rector said NCAT continues to be the leading provider of skilled professionals in the Nigerian aviation industry. However, he explained that inadequate compensation was leading to brain drain and disruption in training continuity.
Dr Ismaila stated, “Our trained personnel are regularly poached by sister agencies and private companies offering significantly higher salaries. This situation is not sustainable.”
He noted that while the college enjoys government support, retaining experienced staff has become a significant challenge due to better incentives outside NCAT. Therefore, he appealed for legislative backing to review the salary structure and make NCAT more competitive.
Furthermore, he praised the commitment of the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, and other previous administrations for their support. However, he emphasised that more effort is needed, particularly in budgetary allocations. According to him, this will help the college meet rising demands and address pressing operational gaps.
He assured the lawmakers that his administration is focused on repositioning NCAT. Plans are underway to harness the institution’s capacity and derive long-term benefits for the college and the entire aviation industry.
In response, Chairman House Committee on Aviation Technology, Honorable Abisodun, commended the leadership and contributions of the college. He said the Rector’s presentation gave a clear picture of the institution’s priority needs and assured that the committee would assess them carefully.
He also affirmed the committee’s readiness to partner closely with NCAT to tackle its major challenges. He stressed the importance of the college to Nigeria’s aviation growth and pledged consistent legislative support.
Committee members who accompanied the Chairman were visibly impressed with the college’s training facilities. They commended NCAT’s progress and pledged continuous collaboration to strengthen its capabilities.
Dr Ismaila reiterated that unless urgent attention is given to staff welfare, poor wages trigger talent loss will remain a persistent issue.
