The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has urged young Nigerians to explore broader career opportunities in the aviation sector beyond the popular choice of becoming cabin crew members.

The NCAA, through a post on X on Monday by its spokesman, Michael Achimugu, said this while speaking on the growing interest among Nigerian youths in cabin crew training with a vision of being a flight attendant.

The cabin crew encompasses all flight attendants, while the air hostess specifically refers to female attendants. Both genders are vital to the smooth operation of flights, safety and comfort of passengers.

Achimugu acknowledged the appeal and glamour associated with the role, adding that, “It’s a beautiful line of work. You wear smart uniforms, travel the world, and interact with people from all walks of life. It builds patience and character.”

He, however, emphasized that other critical areas within aviation are in high demand and offer even greater opportunities for growth and employment, both locally and internationally.

“Many young Nigerians are investing in cabin crew training. They love the glamour of that career. It is a beautiful line of work. You get to serve people from all walks of life. Your patience gets tested as much as your character. You learn to smile whether you are happy or not. You wear cute uniforms and travel freely,” he advised.

Achimugu also urged aspiring aviation professionals to conduct thorough research into the areas with greater demand and potential for career advancement.

“There is more to aviation than the visible front-line roles. Find the gaps, where there is scarcity and fill that space. That’s how you truly add value,” he added.

With a global aviation workforce shortage looming, the NCAA believes that redirecting attention toward technical and operational roles could help Nigeria’s youth tap into a wider range of job opportunities and contribute meaningfully to the aviation industry.

Listing other focuses which are in high demand, Achimugu said, “There are other careers in aviation that add value and probably have more work openings. I would strongly recommend/encourage more young people to train to become any of the following: Aircraft maintenance technician, Aerospace engineer, Flight instructor, Flight dispatcher, Marshaller, Air traffic controller, among others.”

He further appealed to Nigerians to engage in proper research before choosing a career in aviation.

He stressed, “If you want to go into aviation, research, beyond just your passion, the areas where there are more needs for operators and other service providers. Where is the scarcity? Fill that space and add value.

“All of the above-mentioned also get job opportunities outside Nigeria. Give it a thought. Aviation is a satisfying industry where all of the parts working together make an excellent whole. Start that training today.” (The PUNCH)