Captain Bunmi Gindeh of the National Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has been elected President of the National Association of Air Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE), defeating his rival, Francis Igwe of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), in a keenly contested poll.
The election, held on Friday, September 27, in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, saw Gindeh secure 51 votes against Igwe’s 17. Mudi Muhammad of Arik Air emerged unopposed as National Deputy President, while Adewale Adenugba retained his position as First Trustee. Other winners included Edwin Udoh as Financial Secretary, Blessing Ahmadu as Publicity Secretary, and Michael Nicholas as Second Trustee.
In his acceptance speech, Gindeh commended the outgoing president, Abednego Galadima, for his contributions, particularly the establishment of a training institute. He pledged to utilise the facility to meet international standards and advance member welfare. “We would be pushing for standardised contracts across board like we have abroad. We are also going to advocate for safety for our members and improve our secretariat,” he said.
Reflecting on the campaign, Gindeh noted that teamwork was pivotal to his victory. “The deputy president was the engine room of my campaign and I appreciate the work he put in. Delegation will remain key in our administration,” he added.
Deputy President Muhammad expressed excitement about working with Gindeh, describing him as a visionary leader determined to expand pilot representation in the association. Igwe, in his concession, congratulated Gindeh and pledged his support to maintain unity within NAAPE.
Outgoing President Galadima urged the new leadership to build on the foundation laid by his administration while prioritising the unity and progress of the association.
