…as institution matriculates 90 students

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo, has described the African Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU) as a beacon of excellence and potential, not only for Nigeria and Africa but for the global aviation industry.

This was as the African Aviation and Aerospace University matriculated 30 pioneer undergraduate students and 60 pioneer postgraduate students in various disciplines of aviation and environmental science.

Keyamo, who spoke on Wednesday at the Maiden Matriculation of African Aviation and Aerospace University, noting that event marked the beginning of a journey that would undoubtedly shape the future of aviation and aerospace in the country and beyond.

He explained that establishment of the university was driven by a compelling vision to create a robust long term manpower development plan, addressing the critical human resource gaps within the aviation sector.

According to him, the demand for skilled professionals in aviation and aerospace is ever-growing, saying that he was confident that the staff and students of AAAU would eventually lead the world in research and, paving the way for significant advancements within the industry.

He said: “Our journey has been driven by a compelling vision to create a robust long term manpower development plan, addressing the critical human resource gaps within the aviation sector.

“The demand for skilled professionals in aviation and aerospace is ever-growing, and I am confident that the staff and students of AAAU will eventually lead the world in research and , paving the way for significant advancements within the industry.

“Today’s event transcends a mere matriculation; it symbolizes the commencement and take-off of an institution destined for greatness.

“We have just witnessed the matriculation of 30 pioneer undergraduate students and 60 pioneer postgraduate students in various disciplines of aviation and environmental science.

“This is a monumental step forward, signifying our commitment to excellence and innovation in these fields.”

The Minister noted that the support from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was Instrumental to bringing this vision to life, saying that the initiative aligned perfectly with the Renewed Hope agenda of the current administration.

He pointed out that the mission behind the establishment of the university was to ensure that Nigeria not only keept pace with global developments in aviation and aerospace but also sets new standards.

Encouraging the students, Keyamo said: “to our new students, you are embarking on a journey that will not only shape your future but also the future of aviation and aerospace.

“As I told you the undergraduate students during my previous visit to your lecture room, you are the pioneers of this great institution, and with that comes the responsibility to set high standards and maintain good morals to pave the way for those who will follow.

“As you all are encouraged to graduate with distinction in both character and learning. Embrace the opportunities before you, strive for excellence, and remember that you are not just students of AAAU, but ambassadors of Nigeria’s aviation and aerospace future.

“Your journey here will shape the future of the aviation industry, and I have no doubt that you will make us proud.”

The Minister while performing the groundbreaking ceremony of the permanent site of the university, explained that the institution currently operates from a temporary campus provided by the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) as part of their inter-agency support.

He said further said: “This current place where we stand today, now designated as the permanent site, is strategically located and fit for purpose.

“We are here today with the support of President Bola Tinubu, who approved a take-off grant for AAAU to complement the budget provision made available for the university’s development in the 2024 appropriation.

“The following structures will be part of the first phase of development for the university:
The Faculty of Aviation Management Building;
The Postgraduate School Building, a dqQ250-capacity auditorium; a 350-capacity, auditoriu; a research centre, a synoptic laboratory for meteorology; amultipurpose laboratory, Initial fencing covering two kilometers, as well as two ceremonial gatehouses.

“We are confident that these projects will be completed within 48 weeks, thanks to TETFund for making the grant 100% available and accessible. In today’s world, where public-private partnerships thrive, the university intends to explore the possibility of partnering with the private sector for the development of hostels, a clinic, a conference centre, and, due to the proximity to the airport, a hotel.”

Speaking at the occasion, the Chairman, Senate Committee on Aviation, Senator Abdulfatai Buhari, expressed optimism that, with the university in place, the future of Nigeria is very bright, noting that it is the only Aviation and Aerospace University in Africa at the moment.

Other dignitaries at the event are, the Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Aviation, Hon. Idris Garba, Chairman, Governing Council, AAAU, Bukar Goni Aji, and Mustapha Sheikh Abdullahi, among others.