During the 27th Annual Conference of the League of Airport and Aviation Correspondence (LAAC) held in Lagos, Mr. Akin Olateru, the Director-General and CEO of the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau, delivered a compelling speech emphasizing the significance of funding and nurturing manpower development in the aviation industry.
The conference, with its theme “Aviation Industry: Changing Times, Changing Strategies,” provided a platform for experts to discuss critical issues facing the sector.
Mr. Olateru emphasized that in the 21st century, an organization’s success hinges on four critical elements: infrastructure, equipment, human capital, and regulations. Addressing the importance of human capital, he highlighted that manpower development involves training, upskilling, and fostering a culture of continuous learning within organizations. He stressed that knowledge and skills have become the currency of success in the modern world, making research and development a vital component for any organization’s growth.
Moreover, Mr. Olateru underscored the significant role of human capital in enhancing employee satisfaction, productivity, and loyalty, ultimately leading to improved organizational performance. To ensure progress, he urged all stakeholders in the aviation industry to be proactive and invest in equipping their staff with the necessary knowledge and skills.
However, the DG/CEO also acknowledged that there are challenges hindering manpower development, such as the lack of adequate funding for training initiatives and limited budget allocations. He stressed that allocating resources for manpower development requires careful planning, prioritization, and unwavering commitment from all stakeholders.
Amid the dynamic landscape of the aviation industry, Mr. Olateru emphasized the importance of staying ahead by identifying and addressing gaps in manpower development. He stated that different areas of manpower development may not require equal investments, and thus, targeted planning is necessary.
Furthermore, he highlighted the need for succession planning within organizations. According to Mr. Olateru, companies should go beyond regulatory compliance and establish robust processes to ensure an effective and smooth transition of leadership or ownership in the future. Designing a succession plan becomes crucial for the sustainable growth and stability of institutions.
In conclusion, Mr. Akin Olateru’s address at the LAAC conference shed light on the critical role of manpower development in propelling the aviation industry toward success in the 21st century. By investing in knowledge, skills, and employee growth, organizations can adapt to changing times and foster a thriving aviation sector in Nigeria and beyond.
