Key players in Nigeria’s aviation sector have expressed strong support for the proposed legislation to formally establish the African Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU) in Abuja, describing it as a visionary move to close the continent’s aviation manpower and research gaps.
At a public hearing organised by the House Committee on Aviation Technology, stakeholders from government, academia, and the private sector commended the bill as a timely intervention to address the shortage of skilled professionals undermining the growth of Africa’s aviation and aerospace industries.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar, said the university aligns with the ministry’s goal of positioning Nigeria as a global hub for aviation education, research, and innovation.
He explained that the Ministry initiated AAAU in 2023 to bridge human capacity gaps and promote indigenous research and technological advancement within the sector.
Chairman of the University’s Governing Council, Alhaji Bukar Goni Aji, revealed that the institution had made notable progress and deserved legislative support to consolidate its achievements. He added that the Federal Government allocated 200 hectares of land along Bill Clinton Drive, Abuja, for the university’s permanent site, with several completed structures and relocation plans underway.
The University’s Registrar, Dr. Mustapha Abdullahi, representing the management, staff, and students, noted that AAAU commenced operations in 2023 after receiving executive approval and has since secured accreditation from both the National Universities Commission (NUC) and the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).
He stated that the institution currently offers more than seven accredited undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, with its first set of postgraduate students expected to graduate later this year.
The Rector of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Capt. Danjuma Ismail, described AAAU as a complementary institution that will enhance, not compete with, NCAT’s training mandate. While NCAT focuses on professional pilot and technical training, he said, AAAU will drive academic research and innovation across the aviation value chain.
Declaring the hearing open, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr. Tajudeen Abbas, represented by House Majority Leader, Professor Julius Ihonvbere, described the proposed law as a “major leap forward” in transforming Nigeria’s aviation sector.
He noted that the university would provide advanced skills, reduce dependence on foreign training institutions, and foster research that enhances aviation safety and innovation.
Chairman of the Committee, Mr. Tajudeen Abisodun, assured that the bill represents a historic opportunity for Nigeria to lead in aviation education and research in Africa. He added that the university’s governance structure was designed to uphold integrity, accountability, and autonomy, essential for achieving world-class standards.
