The Federal Government has pledged its full support for the establishment of a proposed Baze Aviation University in Abuja, aimed at addressing critical skills gaps in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, gave the assurance on Thursday when a delegation from Baze University, led by its Chancellor, Senator Datti Baba Ahmed, paid him a courtesy visit at the ministry in Abuja.
Keyamo said the proposed institution aligns with Nigeria’s broader development objectives, particularly the need to strengthen human capacity in aviation and related fields.
He stressed that protecting Nigeria’s national interest remains his top priority, noting that specialised aviation training would enhance national connectivity and boost the country’s competitiveness within the West African sub-region.
Minister Keyamo commended Senator Baba Ahmed for his commitment to quality education, describing the proposed aviation university as timely and strategic.
According to the minister, collaboration between the university and relevant agencies under the ministry would be crucial to the success of the project.
To fast track the initiative, Keyamo directed the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr. Yakubu Kofarmata, to work closely with Baze University, aviation agencies and other stakeholders to facilitate the necessary approvals.
In his remarks, Dr. Kofarmata assured the delegation that the ministry would give the project priority attention, describing it as a major step toward strengthening Nigeria’s aviation ecosystem and manpower development.
Earlier, Senator Baba Ahmed thanked the minister and the ministry’s leadership for their support, highlighting Baze University’s growth from an initial enrolment of 17 students in 2012 to over 500 graduates to date.
He said the proposed aviation university would build on this foundation while maintaining national representation and academic excellence.
He disclosed that the institution would offer programmes in Aviation Studies, Aeronautical Engineering, Aircraft Management, Air Traffic Control and Meteorology, alongside complementary disciplines such as Education, Healthcare and Tourism.
According to him, the university would play a key role in producing skilled manpower needed for economic growth and technological advancement.
Also speaking, the Registrar of Baze University, Prof. Abiodun Adeniyi, expressed appreciation for the warm reception accorded the delegation and expressed confidence that the Baze Aviation University would be established within a short time.
