Aviation in Nigeria: High-Demand Professions

Last Updated on September 21, 2023

Introduction

The aviation industry in Nigeria has seen significant growth over the years. The sector plays an essential role in the Nigerian economy, with aviation professionals in high demand.

Aviation in Nigeria covers a wide range of professions, including pilots, air traffic controllers, engineers, technicians, and cabin crew, among others. These professions are crucial for ensuring the safety and smooth operation of air travel in the country.

The aviation industry contributes significantly to the Nigerian economy. It facilitates the movement of people, goods, and services, which is essential for economic growth.

Additionally, the sector creates employment opportunities for Nigerians, contributing to poverty reduction and economic growth.

Read: The Future Outlook of Aviation Jobs in Nigeria

Pilot

Requirements to become a pilot in Nigeria

1. Minimum age of 18 years old
   
   
2. Minimum of five credits in SSCE, NECO, or GCE O’Level including Mathematics and English
   
   
3. Hold a Class 1 Medical Certificate from Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA)
   
   
4. Pass the Nigerian Air Force Screening Test or the NCAA Pilot Screening Test
   
   
5. Complete a minimum of 200 hours of flight training, including 150 hours as pilot in command
   
   
6. Hold a Commercial Pilot License (CPL) or Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL).

Training programs and schools in Nigeria for aspiring pilots

1. Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT) in Zaria, Kaduna State
   
   
2. Zenith Aviation Training Academy in Lagos
   
   
3. Landover Aviation Business School in Lagos
   
   
4. International Aviation College in Ilorin, Kwara State
   
   
5. Pan African Aviation College in Lagos

Job Opportunities and Average Salaries for Pilots in Nigeria

Pilot jobs in Nigeria are available in both the private and public sectors. Some of the common employers include airlines, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, and the Nigerian Air Force.

The average salary for a pilot in Nigeria varies based on several factors such as the employer, years of experience, and type of aircraft flown. However, according to payscale.com, the average salary of a pilot in Nigeria is ₦6,425,000 per annum.

Challenges Faced by Pilots in Nigeria

One of the major challenges faced by pilots in Nigeria is the lack of maintenance of aircraft. Many airlines in Nigeria operate with old aircraft, which increases the risk of accidents. Pilots have to be cautious when flying such aircraft and ensure that all safety protocols are followed.

Another challenge faced by pilots in Nigeria is the lack of adequate security at airports. The Nigerian aviation industry has been plagued with security concerns for several years.

Pilots have to be careful when operating in such environments and ensure that they follow all security protocols.

Lastly, the weather condition in Nigeria can also pose a challenge to pilots. The country’s tropical climate can give rise to thunderstorms and heavy rain, making flying conditions challenging. Pilots have to be well-trained to be able to navigate such conditions and ensure the safety of passengers.

In fact, becoming a pilot in Nigeria requires a high level of dedication and training. The job is lucrative and has many opportunities, but pilots also face challenges that they have to be prepared to overcome.

With the right training and experience, aspiring pilots can have a fulfilling career in the Nigerian aviation industry.

Read: A Beginner’s Guide to Aviation Careers in Nigeria

Aircraft Maintenance Engineer

An Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) is a highly skilled professional responsible for ensuring the safety and airworthiness of aircraft. In Nigeria, the aviation industry is rapidly growing, thus creating an increased demand for aircraft maintenance engineers.

Let’s discuss the requirements to become an aircraft maintenance engineer, training programs and schools, job opportunities and average salaries, and challenges faced by aircraft maintenance engineers in Nigeria.

Requirements to become an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer:

1. A minimum of five credits at O-level, including Mathematics, English, Physics, and any other two relevant science subjects.
   
   
2. Attend an aviation school approved by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).
   
   
3. Complete an apprenticeship program or an approved training course.
   
   
4. Pass the NCAA licensing examination for an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer.
   
   
5. Obtain a Technical Certificate or National Diploma in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering or related fields from reputable institutions.

Training Programs and Schools for Aspiring Aircraft Maintenance Engineers:

1. Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT): Offers courses in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering.
   
   
2. Nigerian Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT): Provides training for Aircraft Maintenance Engineers.
   
   
3. Aeroconsult Aviation Training Centre: Offers courses in Aviation Management, Avionics, and Line maintenance.
   
   
4. International Aviation College Ilorin (IAC): Provides training in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering.
   
   
5. Airforce Institute of Technology (AFIT): Provides training in the repair and maintenance of aircraft and avionic components.

Job Opportunities and Average Salaries for Aircraft Maintenance Engineers:

1. Aircraft Engineering and Maintenance companies: Offer employment opportunities for aircraft maintenance engineers in Nigeria. The average salary ranges from NGN 200,000 to NGN 600,000 monthly.
   
   
2. Airline companies: Employ aircraft maintenance engineers and offer a comfortable salary scale of between NGN 250,000 and NGN 800,000 monthly.
   
   
3. Aviation schools: May require the services of aircraft maintenance engineers as instructors or lecturers. The average salary may range from NGN 150,000 to NGN 400,000 monthly.
   
   
4. Civil Aviation Authority: Hire aircraft maintenance engineers to ensure that the aircraft within Nigeria’s airspace meet safety requirements. The average salary ranges from NGN 250,000 to NGN 600,000 monthly.

Challenges faced by Aircraft Maintenance Engineers in Nigeria:

1. Difficulty in accessing funds to set up maintenance facilities.
   
   
2. Lack of adequate training and skilled personnel in the field.
   
   
3. Shortage of modern technology equipment and tools.
   
   
4. Inadequate regulatory policies to ensure compliance with safety standards.
   
   
5. Limited awareness and understanding of the importance of maintenance culture in Nigeria.

In essence, Aircraft Maintenance Engineering in Nigeria is a high-demand profession with excellent career prospects. Aspiring engineers must meet the specified requirements and obtain the necessary licenses and certificates.

What’s more, training programs and schools provide essential knowledge needed in the field with a comfortable pay scale.

Nevertheless, Aircraft Maintenance Engineers face numerous challenges such as inadequate regulatory policies, lack of skilled personnel, and limited awareness of maintenance culture in Nigeria.

Air Traffic Controller

Becoming an air traffic controller in Nigeria can be a lucrative and rewarding career path. However, it requires a lot of training and dedication. Here are some requirements and training programs to help you get started.

Requirements to become an air traffic controller in Nigeria

1. Be a citizen of Nigeria
   
   
2. Be at least 21 years old
   
   
3. Have five credit passes in O-Level exams, including Mathematics and English Language
   
   
4. Pass a medical examination to certify you are fit to work as an air traffic controller
   
   
5. Pass a security clearance background check

Training programs and schools in Nigeria for aspiring air traffic controllers

After fulfilling the above requirements, you can apply to an air traffic control training program in Nigeria.

The Nigerian College of Aviation Technology offers a 12-month Air Traffic Services Initial Training Course, which is followed by a six-month On-the-Job Training program. Other training programs include:

1. Air Traffic Control Training School in Lagos
   
   
2. Nigeria Air Traffic Controllers Association

Job opportunities and average salaries for air traffic controllers in Nigeria

According to the Nigeria Airspace Management Agency, the average salary for an air traffic controller in Nigeria is around N350,000 per month ($862 USD).

Air traffic controllers are in high demand in Nigeria, especially in Lagos and Abuja. They work in the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency and in private airlines.

Challenges faced by air traffic controllers in Nigeria

Air traffic control can be a stressful and challenging job. Nigerian air traffic controllers often face issues such as poor infrastructure, inadequate staffing, and outdated equipment. They must also manage a high volume of air traffic due to Nigeria’s growing aviation industry.

However, despite the challenges, air traffic control remains an essential and rewarding profession in Nigeria.

Read: Emerging Opportunities in the Aviation Industry of Nigeria

Cabin Crew

Being a cabin crew member is one of the most glamorous and high profile jobs in the aviation industry.

Cabin crew members ensure the safety and comfort of passengers during a flight. In Nigeria, the demand for cabin crew members is high, and the profession offers several exciting career opportunities.

Requirements to become a cabin crew member in Nigeria

1. Must be at least 18 years old
   
   
2. Must be a Nigerian citizen
   
   
3. Must have a minimum of five credits in O’Level examinations, including Mathematics and English
   
   
4. Must be able to swim
   
   
5. Must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills
   
   
6. Must be physically fit and have a good eyesight

Training programs and schools in Nigeria for aspiring cabin crew members

Several airlines in Nigeria offer training programs for aspiring cabin crew members. These include:

1. Air Peace Aviation School
   
   
2. AeroLink Academy
   
   
3. Dana Air Cabin Crew Training School
   
   
4. Cabin Crew Academy
   
   
5. Landover Aviation Business School
   
   
6. Nigerian College of Aviation Technology

These training programs provide students with the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience to become competent cabin crew members.

Read: Steps to Becoming a Pilot in Nigeria: A Comprehensive Guide

Job Opportunities and average salaries for cabin crew members in Nigeria

Cabin crew members in Nigeria can work for both local and international airlines. The demand for cabin crew members in Nigeria is high, and job opportunities are plentiful.

The average salary for a cabin crew member in Nigeria is between ₦120,000 to ₦180,000 per month. This may vary depending on the airline, experience, and qualifications of the cabin crew member.

Challenges Faced by cabin crew members in Nigeria

Being a cabin crew member in Nigeria comes with its own set of challenges. Some of these challenges include:

1. Long working hours
   
   
2. Irregular work schedule
   
   
3. Jet lag
   
   
4. Dealing with emergency situations
   
   
5. Difficult passengers
   
   
6. Being away from friends and family for extended periods

Despite these challenges, being a cabin crew member remains a highly sought after profession, and the rewards are well worth the effort.

Cabin crew members play a crucial role in the aviation industry, and being a cabin crew member is a highly rewarding career.

In Nigeria, the demand for cabin crew members is high, and the profession offers several exciting career opportunities.

With the right training, qualifications, and experience, anyone can become a competent cabin crew member and enjoy a successful career in the aviation industry.

Read: Impact of International Law on the Nigerian Legal System

Conclusion

The aviation industry in Nigeria offers high-demand professions such as pilots, air traffic controllers, aviation engineers, and ground staff.

This industry creates job opportunities for Nigerian youth, especially in this era where unemployment is a major issue in the country.

As the aviation industry is rapidly growing in Nigeria, the future opportunities include the development of new airports, expansion of existing ones, an increase in the number of flights, and the establishment of new airlines.

On a final note, the aviation industry is an essential sector in Nigeria, and it plays a crucial role in the country’s economic development by providing job opportunities and boosting revenue.