AAAU MAIDEN MATRICULATION/ GROUND BREAKING OF PERMANENT SITE: Keyamo expresses confidence…
… Says AAAU will shape future of Aviation, Aerospace
Oru Leonard
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development in Nigeria, Barr. Festus Keyamo has expressed confidence that the African Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU), will shape future of Aviation, Aerospace in the country.
Keyamo stated this during the matriculation of 30 pioneer undergraduate students and 60 pioneer postgraduate students in various disciplines of aviation and environmental science.
“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” he explained.
“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.
The university currently operates from a temporary campus provided by the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) as part of their interagency support. 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:
1. The Faculty of Aviation Management Building
2. The Postgraduate School Building
3. A 250-capacity auditorium
4. A 350-capacity auditorium
5. A research centre
6. A synoptic laboratory for meteorology
7. A multipurpose laboratory
8. Initial fencing covering 2 kms, as well as two ceremonial gatehouses
