The Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN) has called on the Plateau State Government to prioritise investment in airport infrastructure to unlock the state’s full economic potential.
The association said Plateau remains one of Nigeria’s leading tourist destinations and could significantly boost tourism, logistics, and trade with the right aviation investments.
Speaking at the 4th Quadrennial Delegates Conference of ATSSSAN held in Jos, the President of the association, Comrade Ahmadu Illitrus, said the union was aware of the state government’s plans to invest in aviation and allied ventures but urged that such plans be translated into concrete action.
According to him, there are untapped opportunities in civil aviation infrastructure at the Heipang–Yakubu Gowon Airport, Jos, which could be leveraged to drive development and attract investors.
Illitrus assured that ATSSSAN is ready to collaborate with the Plateau State Government to organise a civil aviation career exposition aimed at creating awareness among students and primary school pupils about career opportunities in the aviation industry.
He recalled that in the early 1980s, the Plateau State Government operated an aviation scholarship scheme that sponsored qualified indigenes to study at the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria.
The ATSSSAN president said those “beautiful memories” inspired the association to once again approach the state government for support and partnership, noting that the proposed career exposition would add long-term value by shaping the aspirations of young people in the state.
Illitrus also disclosed that through prudent financial management and strict discipline, ATSSSAN was able to save resources used to liquidate gratuities owed to all secretariat workers. He explained that some of the beneficiaries resigned voluntarily in pursuit of higher callings, while others exited after years of dedicated service to the association.
Representing the Plateau State Governor, the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Josephine Piyo, described the conference theme, “Human Capital Needs of Civil Aviation in Nigeria: Challenges and Prospects,” as timely and strategic.
She said Nigeria’s competitiveness and ability to meet international aviation standards depend largely on the quality, competence, and continuous development of human capital.
“This gathering presents another important opportunity to evaluate progress, strengthen strategies, and chart new pathways that will improve safety, service delivery, labour relations, and technological advancement across the aviation sector,” she said.
The deputy governor commended the delegates for their commitment to building a more efficient, resilient, and future-ready aviation industry for Nigeria.
