AVIATION STAKEHOLDERS SUPPORT UNIVERSITY BILL TO BOOST MANPOWER
By: Safiya Abdulrahim Dabban
Stakeholders in Nigeria’s aviation sector have thrown their weight behind the proposed bill to establish the African Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU) in Abuja.
At a public hearing by the House Committee on Aviation Technology, they described the move as timely, noting it would solve the manpower shortage hindering growth in the aviation and aerospace industry.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, represented by Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar, said the initiative aligns with the ministry’s vision to make Nigeria a global aviation training hub. He added that AAAU, launched in 2023, aims to bridge the human capacity gap and drive innovation.
Chairman of AAAU’s Governing Council, Alhaji Bukar Goni Aji, revealed that the Federal Government has provided 200 hectares along Bill Clinton Drive, Abuja, with structures nearing completion and relocation underway.
Registrar Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi said the university, approved in 2023, has secured NUC and JAMB accreditations and runs over seven undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, with its first postgraduate students graduating soon.
NCAT Rector, Capt. Danjuma Ismail, described AAAU as a complement to NCAT’s technical training, emphasizing its role in research and innovation.
Declaring the hearing open, Speaker of the House, Dr. Tajudeen Abbas (represented by Prof. Julius Ihonvbere), said the university would equip Nigerians with advanced skills, reduce foreign dependence, and enhance safety and innovation in the industry.
Committee Chairman, Mr. Tajudeen Abisodun, called the bill a historic opportunity to make Nigeria a continental leader in aviation education and technology.