Mariam Abeeb
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Barr. Festus Keyamo, has decried that government is facing a shortage of air traffic controllers, while encouraging university to focus on training professionals in this area.
Keyamo made this known in Abuja at the news conference to unveil the establishment of the Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management (IBAUM) .
He explained that the university’s role is seen as complementing the federal government’s efforts in producing necessary aviation professionals.
He suggested retaining retired professionals on contract terms to address the shortage.
He described the project as a revolution in aviation training and a major milestone for Nigeria and Africa.
The minister commended that the university for its contributions to the aviation sector and specifically mentions the need for air traffic controllers.
•
He restated the determination of the present administration to promote private sector growth and human capital development in the Aviation and other sectors of the economy.
He said the university aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision to promote private sector growth and human capital development, two key pillars of the administration’s five-point agenda.
He added that Africa’s aviation sector is projected to be one of the fastest growing globally, creating a huge demand for pilots, engineers, and controllers, and that IBAUM will help Nigeria prepare for this growth.
Founder of the Institution, Engineer Isaac Balami, said the institution was established to bridge the skills gap in aviation across Africa.
He explained that students will earn degrees alongside pilot licenses and maintenance certifications accredited by the NCAA and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), with over 1,000 hours of hands-on aircraft training using technologies from Boeing, Airbus, and Rolls-Royce.
According to him, the university is tied to an existing aircraft maintenance repair and overhaul facility in Lagos, ensuring practical training for students.
Engr. Balami explained the comprehensive training students will receive, including hands-on experience in various aviation fields.
Never miss a moment! Get the stories shaping Nigeria, delivered straight to your phone. Follow Peoplesdaily Newspaper on WhatsApp for breaking news, exclusive reports, and the headlines everyone will be talking about, before anyone else.
