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By Tracy Moses
Key stakeholders in Nigeria’s aviation sector have pledged strong support for the proposed legislation to establish the African Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU) in Abuja, describing it as a crucial step toward addressing the severe manpower deficit slowing the growth of the aviation and aerospace industries across Africa.
Speaking during a public hearing organised on Wednesday by the House Committee on Aviation Technology, participants drawn from government institutions, academia, and the private sector stressed that the university would strengthen Nigeria’s position as a leading centre for aviation research, innovation, and training on the continent.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar, hailed the proposal as a forward-thinking move aligned with the ministry’s long-term vision to transform Nigeria into a global aviation training hub.
He explained that the ministry established AAAU in 2023 to close existing skill gaps and promote homegrown research and technological advancement in aviation and aerospace.
“The African Aviation and Aerospace University represents more than an academic institution; it is the future of aviation manpower development for Africa,” Abubakar said.
He lauded the National Assembly for its foresight in moving to give the institution legislative backing, adding that the Bill would provide a strong legal base and operational autonomy to ensure the university’s sustainability.
Chairman of the university’s Governing Council, Alhaji Bukar Goni Aji, highlighted that the institution had made notable progress since its inception and deserved statutory recognition to build on its achievements.
He revealed that the Federal Government had already allocated 200 hectares of land along Bill Clinton Drive, Abuja, as its permanent site, with several structures completed and relocation already underway.
“The passage of this Bill will boost confidence in the university’s credentials, attract international collaborations, and secure sustainable funding,” Aji said.
Representing the management, staff, and students, the Registrar of AAAU, Dr. Mustapha Sheikh Abdullahi, noted that the university had made substantial strides since commencing operations in 2023 with executive approval from the Federal Government.
According to him, the university has obtained full accreditation from the National Universities Commission (NUC) and the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). It currently runs over seven accredited programmes at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, with the pioneer postgraduate students set to graduate this year.
Abdullahi further disclosed that the university had successfully carried out executive training programmes for over 300 personnel from major aviation agencies, including the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB).
“Our support for this Bill is absolute,” he affirmed. “It will grant the legal authority we need to expand, form global partnerships, and meet the continent’s growing demand for aviation professionals.”
Rector of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Capt. Danjuma Ismail, also endorsed the proposed university, describing it as a complementary institution that would enhance, rather than compete with, the existing college.
He explained that while NCAT specialises in technical and professional pilot training, AAAU would fill the academic and research gap by providing advanced degrees and fostering innovation.
“Many aviation professionals lack access to postgraduate education. AAAU will create that pathway. We are already partnering with the university by providing instructors and technical expertise, and we urge the National Assembly to pass the Bill without delay,” Ismail said.
Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, equally threw his weight behind the proposal, stressing that aviation and aerospace disciplines require not only technical expertise but also institutional discipline, compliance, and safety consciousness.
He noted that the Nigerian Air Force, with its decades of experience in aviation education, recognises the strategic role of AAAU in enhancing national security, economic growth, and regional leadership in aerospace technology.
Citing data from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and Boeing’s 2024 forecast, Abubakar disclosed that Africa would need more than 70,000 new aviation professionals between 2025 and 2044, including 23,000 pilots and 24,000 technicians, underscoring the urgency of expanding training capacity.
“The creation of AAAU is not only desirable; it is necessary,” he stated. “But the institution must instill discipline and excellence to produce world-class professionals.”
Declaring the hearing open, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, described the proposed university as a “transformative step for Nigeria’s aviation future.”
He said the initiative would help equip Nigerians with advanced skills, reduce reliance on foreign training, and promote research that enhances aviation safety and innovation.
“This university will position Nigeria as the aviation and aerospace hub of Africa,” Abbas said. “I call on all stakeholders to rally behind this Bill to build a strong, future-ready aviation sector.”
Chairman of the House Committee on Aviation Technology, Hon. Tajudeen Abisodun, described the Bill as a historic opportunity for Nigeria to lead Africa in aviation education, technology, and research.
He emphasized that the university’s governance structure is designed to promote transparency, accountability, and institutional independence, essential for global competitiveness.
“This university is not just Nigeria’s project; it belongs to Africa,” Abisodun declared. “It’s a bold statement of intent, that we are ready to lead, to innovate, and to educate at the highest global standard