Category: Aviation

CHUKS OKOH Ahead of the 44th Annual General Meeting of NAHCO scheduled for Friday, May 23, 2025, shareholders for the Company have been commending its unprecedented performance. The commendation came on the heels of the declaration of  FY 2024 audited results as profit before tax soared by 115.4 per cent to N18.70 billion in 2024 as against N8.68 billion in 2023. Total revenue rose by 88.5 per cent from N28.40 billion in 2023 to N53.54 billion in 2024. With increased top-line efficiency, gross profit increased by 120.53 per cent to N33.08 billion in 2024 as against N15 billion in 2023. Operating profit also jumped by 123.93 per cent from N8.86 billion to N19.84 billion, underscoring the fact that the groups performance was driven mainly by core business operations. Based on this result, the Dr Seinde Fadeni-led board of directors has recommended distribution of N11.58 billion as cash dividends to shareholders for the 2024 business year, more than double of N4.95 billion distributed for the 2023 business year. The Q1, 2025 Unaudited results of the Company submitted to the Nigerian Exchange (NGX), has also revealed that the Company is set to outperform the Q1, 2024 results with Q1, 2025 as revenue more than doubled the 2024 figure for the same period. A statement by the Company pointed out that contracts renewal with clients has been concluded at the rate of 95 percent while new clients have been onboarded. NAHCO is also taking delivery of new Ground Support Equipment just arriving the Lagos Seaport which will further help service delivery. These series of developments have earned the commendation of shareholders, regulators and other stakeholders. National Coordinator, Independent Shareholders Association of Nigeria (ISAN), Mr. Moses Igbrude, commended the board and management of NAHCO for running the company in a way that delivers increasing values for the shareholders. “NAHCO has done fantastically well, it has outperformed investors’ expectations. The present board and management are running the business very well,” Igbrude said. He urged the company to continue its commendable growth trajectory, by continuing to explore other emerging opportunities. President, Association for the Advancement of Rights of Nigerian Shareholders (AARNS), Dr Faruk Umar said NAHCO has shown very impressive performance, citing the companys results for full-year 2024 and first quarter 2025. According to him, in 2024, the Company had a robust financial performance which was unprecedented. He noted that the dividend of N5.94 per share declared by the board of directors is highly commendable. “Looking at the 2025 first quarter result that witnessed a tremendous increase, we believe this year will be very impressive for shareholders. “We commend the board chairman for his effective leadership, as well as the management and staff of the company for their dedication and commitment to the progress of the company, Umar said. Mr. Taiwo Oderinde, Chairman, Proactive Shareholders Association, speaking on the exemplary performance of the Company said that the profit has been awesome. According to Oderinde, Since the new investor came on board, the Company has been on the upward swing. The performance has been excellent. He urged the Board and Management of the Company not to rest on their oars even as he made a case for regular in-person AGM in the near future. In her own comments, the Chairman, Ark of God Shareholders Association, Mrs. Efunyemi Olatunde Obideyi said NAHCO has surprised all shareholders by its performance. Mrs. Obideyi said the jump in the share price from N4 per share to N85.00 was unimaginable. Declaring that any shareholder who knew it would be like this would have bought more shares, she said, NAHCO keep surprising all of us with their performance.

CHUKS IWELUNMO, Nigeria’s leading travel consolidator, Finchglow Travels, brought together its top trade partners and major international airlines in Lagos for the 13th edition of PartnerPlus Connect (PPC), a vibrant, interactive live experience designed to deepen engagement between trade partners and airline collaborators. This year’s PPC brought together top international and regional airlines, including Emirates, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, Air Peace, and SABRE, alongside long-standing trade partners from across Nigeria’s travel sector. The event featured interactive help desks and partner stands, where attendees could engage with Finchglow Travels’ team and explore solutions to real-time business challenges. Finchglow Travels’ commitment to building strong relationships with its partners was evident throughout the event. “We’re excited about the opportunities that come with working closely with our partners,” said Ezekiel Ikotun, Managing Director of Finchglow Travels. “PPC 13.0 marked a significant milestone in our journey to deliver more value to our partners and drive growth in the travel sector.” Abiola Bakare, B2B Manager at Finchglow Travels, added, “Our goal is to create a platform where our partners can come together, share ideas, and find solutions to common challenges. We’re proud of what we’ve achieved with PPC, and we’re looking forward to continuing to innovate and improve.” The event also recognised the company’s top performers, with Finchglow Travels honouring its top three trade partners for outstanding performance and consistency. A special Decade of Excellence Award was presented to a long-standing partner, VegCliff Travels & Tours Ltd, recognising ten years of unwavering loyalty and collaboration. Every attending trade partner received a certificate of appreciation, highlighting the company’s commitment to valuing every relationship. “You can tell something new is taking shape at Finchglow Travels,” said Ifeyinwa Omoleme, Sales Team Lead at Delta Airlines. “There’s a noticeable shift from just doing business to deepening partnerships with intention. It’s not something you see every day in our space.” Through PPC 13.0, Finchglow Travels reaffirmed its commitment to innovation, collaboration, and meaningful partnership, setting a new benchmark for industry engagement and unlocking fresh possibilities for growth in the travel sector. As its 19th anniversary approaches, the company seems poised for a defining new chapter, one marked by strategic precision, forward-thinking innovation, and bold positioning in an increasingly competitive travel landscape.

  CHUKS OKOH Director General Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, (NCAA) Captain Chris Najomo says, sustainable growth of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) in Nigeria depends on three crucial pillars, safety, security, and innovation These pillars, he stresses, form the foundation of what he called a modern and effective Nigeria drone regulatory framework. Captain Najomo further stressed the importance of strategic regulation for drone development in Nigeria. He made this clear while delivering the keynote address at the 5th Dronetex Conference themed “Determining the Future of UAVs in Nigeria.” According to the DGCA, safety assurance will help avoid collisions, system failures, and human error during drone operations. Additionally, security safeguards are necessary to protect critical infrastructure and sensitive information from potential malicious activity. Just as crucial is innovation facilitation, which enables scalable investment and research. “Regulation must not only demand compliance,” Captain Najomo stated. “It must also anticipate change, encourage innovation, and ensure resilience in the face of evolving technologies.” He observed that drones are redefining sectors globally—from agriculture to emergency services—highlighting their role in Nigeria’s development. Already, Nigerian innovators are using drones to monitor pipelines, support disaster response, and collect data in remote areas. While Nigeria is not new to drone operations, the Director General explained that most activities remain within the domestic space and fall under non-type-certificated categories. This means regulations must reflect local realities while still aligning with international best practices. To meet this challenge, the NCAA will implement a risk-based model for drone oversight. The model categorizes operations based on drone weight, altitude, and complexity. Each class—open, specific, or certified—will be governed by safety and operational thresholds. “We are working to publish interim operational guidelines that reflect these categories,” Najomo said. “They will provide clarity and structure for operators across Nigeria.” Importantly, the new Nigeria drone regulatory framework will align with international standards such as ICAO’s Model UAS Regulations and JARUS’s Specific Operations Risk Assessment (SORA). However, Nigeria’s regulatory tools will be adapted to reflect local challenges, such as urban density and socio-economic concerns. Further initiatives include mandatory type certification for UAS models to ensure airworthiness and cybersecurity. NCAA will also develop a national drone registry connected to real-time tracking systems. This will improve accountability and transparency in UAS operations. For safety and national security, geo-fencing technology will be deployed to prevent drone access to restricted areas like airports and government buildings. NCAA will also work with the Office of the National Security Adviser to introduce anti-drone technology for early threat detection. Capacity building is another key element. The NCAA plans to launch a National UAS Academy in collaboration with universities and industry leaders. This academy will train the next generation of drone professionals and engineers in Nigeria. To support innovation, the Authority will foster public-private partnerships that promote local drone manufacturing and research. A Multi-Agency Task Force will also be formed. This task force will include NCAA, NAMA, FAAN, NCAT, NIMET, NCC, and security agencies to enhance regulatory coordination. Despite these efforts, Najomo acknowledged that regulatory gaps and public skepticism still pose barriers. He called for ethical self-regulation by industry, legislative support, and academic involvement in drone-related research and curriculum development. “Our goal is clear,” Najomo declared. “We want Nigeria to transition from a user of drone technology to a leader in UAS innovation and production.” He concluded by praisingthe  efforts of the NCAA UAS Integration Unit led by Chairman Flight Standards Group, Engr. Godwin Balang. He also commended President Nigeria Unmanned Systems and Robotics Association, Mr. Fortune Idu, for organizing the Dronetex platform.

  CHUKS OKOH As the world celebrates the Aeronautical Information Service Day, the President of the Aeronautical Information Management Association of Nigeria (AIMAN), Dr Ibrahim Audu, has called on the federal government to reconsider its stand on the 50% revenue deduction from aviation agencies in order to enable them replace obsolete facilities in the system in the interest of safety as a result of the critical roles played by the agency. Theme of the 2025 WAISD is”Safeguarding The Skies : The Vital Role Of Secured Aeronautical Information In Aviation Safety” In his message to mark the 2025 world AIS Day, Audu noted that the 50% revenue deduction from aviation agencies especially the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency has adversely affected development. The AIMAN boss called for the completion and implementation of the Aeronautical Information Service automation which has dragged for so many years. Dr Audu, assured members of of efforts to get them licensed which remained paramount in order to have confidence in the discharge of their statutory responsibilities According to the AIMAN boss, since the inception of his Executives  they were  able to set up a license committee under the Chairmanship of Mr. Patrick Afatapa which has reached a significant milestone in the pursuit of the process adding that God’s willing a great feat in this journey shall be realized. He noted that that Nigeria was lagging behind in the automation of its services compared to other neighbouring countries. Audu noted that AIS Automation will bring about Geographic Information System (GIS) which will guide and enhance  operations and also digitalize NOTAM  systems. The AIMAN president  further disclosed that automation will help to automate weather observing systems and will provide pilots with accurate data for operations. Dr Audu commended the Managing Director of NAMA for the intervention in ensuring that obsolete navigation, communications and surveillance equipment were replaced. “Arising from the fact that Nigeria is holding the first international conference IFAIMA 2025. The 2025 World AIS Day shall be celebrated at the station level in order to  gear all support needed for a successful conference” Audu said. He urged all members of AIMAN in Nigeria to register and participate fully in the IFAIMA conference where at the end of the day, value shall be added to both the profession and the personnel to enable them ensure a seamless and smooth flow of Aeronautical information necessary for the safety, regularity and efficiency of international air navigation as enshrined in the ICAO Annex 15. World AIS Day is observed on May 15th annually. The first World AIS Day took place in 1953 and it is observed to promote the importance of Aviation Information Services (AIS) for the safety and efficiency of air transportation. The purpose is to raise awareness about the crucial role of Aviation Information Services in global air navigation. AIS Services provide essential data and information to pilots and other air traffic control professionals with focus on promoting safety, efficiency, and cooperation in air navigation.

  CHUKS OKOH. The stage is now set  for the IFAIMA World Conference, scheduled to hold from May 27 to 29, 2025, at the Transcorp Hilton Abuja. According to Kabir Yahaya Gusau, Chairman Local Organising Committee (Abuja 2025), the conference is expected to bring together 250 to 270 participants from across the globe to discuss new developments and innovations in Aeronautical Information Management. The conference, themed “Innovating for the Future of Aeronautical Information Management,” aims to promote and maintain a safe, orderly, and expeditious flow of air traffic throughout the world. Gusau said it will also facilitate coordination and collaboration between organizations and IFAIMA  to better meet their information management requirements. He expressed gratitude to the Federal Government of Nigeria, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo,  for being supportive Aviation agencies, including the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), and the Nigerian Immigration Service, were also commended for their support and assistance in hosting the conference. “The Nigerian Immigration Service has made it easy for participants to obtain visas, and arrangements have been made for transportation from Abuja and Lagos airports to the conference venue,” Gusau says. He stressed that the conference is expected to address challenges and issues arising from the transition of Federal Information Service to the broader concept of Aeronautical Information Management. Gusau noted that the conference is not just for aviation professionals but for Nigeria as a whole, as he expressed pride to be a Nigerian. He urged Nigerians to collaborate with international participants to exchange ideas and learn from each other in the course of the conference The conference will feature presentations, discussions, and networking opportunities for participants to share their experiences and expertise in Aeronautical Information Management. With the preparations almost complete, the stage is set for a successful conference that will promote innovation and collaboration in the aviation industry Meanwhile, the President of International Federation of Aeronautical Information Management Association (IFAIMA), Ms Funmi Adeyemi says, Nigeria is ready to host delegates from all over the world in Abuja at the 2025 IFAIMA conference Speaking with journalists in Lagos on the preparation for the first ever international conference holding in this part of the world tagged, ‘Abuja 2025’, Adeyemi said, all hands were on deck to ensure a huge success of the event scheduled for 27 to 29 May. According to the IFAIMA President, this will be the first time the conference will hold on the Western and Central African  (WACAF) region adding, that the minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Mr Festus Keyamo and other aviation agency’s chiefs have been very supportive. Ms Adeyemi thanked the management of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency for enabling them to achieve the certification Quality Management Service (QMS) and AIS last year, which is one of the steps from transiting from AIS to AIM and appreciated all her colleagues that made it possible working under pressure to with high work load She noted that the use of manuals was outdated especially in an era where every system has been digitalised According to the IFAIMA BOSS, countries have embraced System Wide Information Management (SWIM) to ease their jobs and called for the fast tracking of the AIM projects process On the MoU signed between IFAIMA and other bodies, the IFAIMA boss said it was aimed at solidifying their commitment to collaboration and to  foster a shared vision for advancing aviation safety

CHUKS OKOH, The popular saying that ‘what a man can do, a woman can do even better is playing out fast, at the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), where Mrs Olubunmi kuku is holding sway as the Managing Director, Chief Executive officer of the Authority.   There is clear indication that FAAN is on another pedestal in terms of revenue generation, human capital development and in the provision of infrastructure upgrade less than two years the present MD was appointed by the federal government. Her approach and style, coupled with the ability to get things done fast, shows that she was prepared before coming on board with much energy and innovations in the system during their time.   Being the foot soldier of the present Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Barrister Festus keyamo, Nigerians are hopeful that better days are ahead in the aviation industry for common good of all stakeholders. It remains  a landmark appointment and equally a departure from the old order (men dominated sector in the past), when on the 18th December, 2023 President Bola Ahmed Tinubu broke the jinx and, endorsed the appointment of Mrs kuku. As it stands, she is the first woman ever to occupy the highest office in FAAN many years after the authority was carved out from the defunct Nigeria Airport Authority(NAA). Since her appointment interestingly, it has been one success story after another, especially in the areas of infrastructure upgrade, provision of modern equipment to enhance seamless operations and conducive atmosphere  upon which the workers now operates. For example, under Mrs Kuku, the revenue growth in FAAN has quadrupled less than two years she assumed office. FAAN’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), rose to over N112 billion, a significant improvement from N54.3 billion in 2023 and N30.5 billion in 2022 respectively. In the area of manpower training, the authority is not lagging behind  also. Between when this administration came on stream and now, FAAN has recorded the training of over 4,000 staff, and critical personnel across six safety-critical courses and still counting at the Authority’s Training School, hitherto upgraded to meet International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), recommended standards. Talking about infrastructural development, reconstruction and rehabilitation of internal roads, terminals, conveyor belts, and most importantly eradication of touts and undesirable elements, to enhance security and well-being of passengers also have gained serious attention of the management. FAAN also is not leaving any stone unturned in the area of promoting industrial harmony, all in a bid to ensure that consumers of its services and other major players in the system gets value for their money. The idea of strategic partnerships and incentives also introduced by the current management has led to boost of airport revenue generation and collaboration with key agencies and various stakeholders, thereby ensuring cooperation and synergies with all players in the industry. Not done yet, customer experience through enhanced airport facilities and services, priotized institutional capacity building and staff welfare, attraction of foreign students from neighbouring African countries to train in FAAN training school and the promotion of FAAN’s image vie collaboration with national and international bodies speaks volume of how determined and ready the leadership of FAAN is, to ensure that FAAN competes efficiently and favourably with other airport groups in the world. Analysts in the aviation sector are in unison, saying that, the coming of the current Chief Executive Officer is a blessing, and therefore should be supported and encouraged to do more. The development in FAAN according to them have brought succor and positive changes, and as such have proven that women really can be trusted with any position in the land no matter how sophisticated and challenging such an office may appear. The readiness of the authority to decentralize cargo processing and provide room for equitable access to modern logistics infrastructure across airports in the country appear to be what the industry need at this time to support the nations economic goals that is very dear to the heart of the federal government. This was echoed recently during the unveiling ceremony of new domestic cargo processing facility at the General Aviation Terminal(GAT). The Director  of Commercial and Business Development, Ms Joy Agunbiade who represented the FAAN MD at the event explained that, the whole idea is to promote efficiency and connectivity of cargo operations at Lagos airport. This development no doubt is in tandem with FAAN’s strategic roadmap that is aimed at optimizing Nigeria’s cargo movement ostensibly targeted to stamp its position in the global logistics chain which the present Chief Executive officer, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku is vigorously pursuing. With the feat already recorded within this short period, chances are that, the authority will continue to break new grounds in every facet of its operations for the common good

CHUKS OKOH, The managing director of Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, says the authority is ready to decentralise cargo processing and provide equitable access to modern logistics infrastructure across airports in the country. This is aimed at  not only supporting the economic goals of the nation but also signals our commitment to fostering innovation and efficiency within the aviation sector, Speaking at the unveiling of  the new domestic cargo processing facility at the General Aviation Terminal, Lagos Kuku said the bold move was to strengthen aviation logistics and bolster export capacity Represented by the Director of Commercial and Business Development, Ms Joy Agunbiade, Kuku, stated that the initiative was a direct result of the renewed emphasis placed on cargo infrastructure under the leadership of the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo She described it as a strategic game-changer, the facility is designed to enhance the efficiency, scalability, and connectivity of cargo operations at Lagos airport. “With the continued growth in e-commerce and agricultural exports, the terminal offers businesses a more reliable, secure, and streamlined logistics platform. It is expected to significantly reduce existing bottlenecks in cargo movement while positioning Lagos as a pivotal hub for both domestic and international freight operations”. “The commissioning marks a critical step in the execution of FAAN’s strategic roadmap aimed at optimising Nigeria’s cargo movement and reinforcing the country’s position in the global logistics chain” She noted that in 2023, the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo in the bid to transform the Aviation Sector, created the Directorate of Cargo Development and Services with the main objective of promoting exportation. This initiative has led to the completion and equipping of this domestic cargo processing facility. Kuku said it was more than just a facility as the warehouse represented a bold step toward efficiency, connectivity, and sustainable economic growth, as well as a significant mark in the ongoing efforts to build and modernize Nigeria’s aviation infrastructure, enhance cargo operations, and boost economic growth. “Cargo movement is the lifeblood of commerce, powering industries, supporting businesses, and creating opportunities. As e-commerce expands, and agricultural exports surge, the demand for reliable, rapid, and secure cargo logistics has never been greater” The FAAN boss noted that the facility was designed precisely for the moment to accelerate trade, enhance operational efficiency, and position us for the future. “This domestic cargo terminal is a gateway for efficiency, speed, scalability and better domestic logistic movement. The ripple effect will be felt not only in increased revenue for the aviation sector but also in strengthening supply chains for businesses nationwide”. Kuku remarked that the terminal will serve as a catalyst for increasing international cargo volumes adding that as Lagos remained the economic heartbeat of Nigeria, an efficient cargo hub will attract more national freight operators.   The Director of Cargo Development  Services, Mr Lekan Thomas, said the event was not just a ceremony; but a testament to progress, purpose and hard work from different stakeholders. Thomas said Nigeria’s commercial hub, Lagos remained at the center of cargo activity, making the newly commissioned Domestic Cargo Shed a vital component of our national logistics framework. “Under the dynamic leadership of FAAN’s Managing Director & Chief Executive, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, we have witnessed a steadfast commitment to positioning Nigeria’s aviation and cargo sectors for international competitiveness” He added that her strategic approach has driven reforms, focused on operational excellence, infrastructural upgrades, and customer-centric services. “The establishment of this Domestic Cargo Shed is a direct result of her visionary leadership, ensuring that our cargo operations adhere to the highest standards and using her phrase making our “airport for exports’’ a reality. According to Thomas, the unveiling of the facility remained a significant step towards a more interconnected and economically vibrant Nigeria adding that it was the beginning. He added that the next phase will be the full development of full-scale domestic cargo hubs at airports across the country. “These hubs will go beyond being mere storage spaces, they will become state-of-the-art centers for logistics excellence, setting new industry standards and accelerating Nigeria’s aviation-driven economic growth” .

  CHUKS OKOH   Osubi airport in Warri, Delta state, one of the fastest growing airports in the country has continued to attract more domestic airlines with state of the art facilities being installed   The airport with it’s air field lightings  currently being upgraded from category Two to Three, has one of the best baggage scanning machines installed.   About eight scheduled commercial airline operators have shown interest to operate flights in and out of the Osubi airports.   It was gathered that the the short length of the airport’s runway has limited airline operators from operating with big aircraft.   Osubi  is an airport to watch as traffic will shift to the area after the extension of its runway which will lead to it’s upgrading to a full fledged airport.   It was also learnt that the minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Mr Festus Keyamo has shown interest in the extension of the runway to accommodate bigger aircraft   Osubi airport, is the only airport in the country that has remained self funded with the internally  generated revenue without budget and funding from the government.   On revenue generation, the airport has continued to wax stronger from zero naira four years ago to one billion naira (N1bn) and close to N2bn last year.   With 22 staff to run the airport from the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria after resumption four years ago, it can now boast of about 150 third party staff, not direct FAAN staff but the airport staff with Osubi airport salary payments.   With monthly staff bill of about N20m, the Osubi airport pays N16m to FAAN every month   Experts have admitted that there has been significant improvement in infrastructure and operational procedures   But for the part of Osubi airport manager, Mr Winston Egwuatu, the growth of the airport was as a result of what he called working procedure established by the management of the Osubi airport, prompt procedure for maintenance as at when due.   Egwuatu, who has won several awards, including the 2024 NIGAV most innovative airport manager of the year and most promising airport award, said Aerodrome manual was being followed back to back with procedure in place for maintenance.

  CHUKS OKOH. Rector Nigerian College of Aviation Technology, Dr Danjuma A. Ismaila, has decried the institution’s wage profile as critically low and demotivating. He described the situation as the main reason poor wages trigger talent loss and the continued exit of trained professionals to other agencies offering better remuneration packages. He made this known during an oversight visit to the College by Chairman House Committee on Aviation Technology, Honorable Tajudeen Kareem Abisodun. According to a statement signed by Director Information, Dr Jude Amadi, the committee, during a tour of NCAT’s facilities, was received by Dr Ismaila and his top management team, seize the opportunity to give an overview of NCAT’s key contributions to aviation manpower development. The Rector said NCAT continues to be the leading provider of skilled professionals in the Nigerian aviation industry. However, he explained that inadequate compensation was leading to brain drain and disruption in training continuity. Dr Ismaila stated, “Our trained personnel are regularly poached by sister agencies and private companies offering significantly higher salaries. This situation is not sustainable.” He noted that while the college enjoys government support, retaining experienced staff has become a significant challenge due to better incentives outside NCAT. Therefore, he appealed for legislative backing to review the salary structure and make NCAT more competitive. Furthermore, he praised the commitment of the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, and other previous administrations for their support. However, he emphasised that more effort is needed, particularly in budgetary allocations. According to him, this will help the college meet rising demands and address pressing operational gaps. He assured the lawmakers that his administration is focused on repositioning NCAT. Plans are underway to harness the institution’s capacity and derive long-term benefits for the college and the entire aviation industry. In response, Chairman House Committee on Aviation Technology, Honorable Abisodun, commended the leadership and contributions of the college. He said the Rector’s presentation gave a clear picture of the institution’s priority needs and assured that the committee would assess them carefully. He also affirmed the committee’s readiness to partner closely with NCAT to tackle its major challenges. He stressed the importance of the college to Nigeria’s aviation growth and pledged consistent legislative support. Committee members who accompanied the Chairman were visibly impressed with the college’s training facilities. They commended NCAT’s progress and pledged continuous collaboration to strengthen its capabilities. Dr Ismaila reiterated that unless urgent attention is given to staff welfare, poor wages trigger talent loss will remain a persistent issue.

  CHUKS OKOH. The proprietor of Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and management, Engr Isaac Balami says, the institution will serve as a stop gap to the current high cost of training of professionals in the country’s aviation sector   Speaking on a television interview monitored in Lagos, Balami, whose university was recently  given license by the National University Commission, disclosed, that over 100 applicants across Africa have shown interest for enrollment into the University.   Balami noted, that students will have five years to learn in the university what he acquired for almost twenty years in the industry   According to the former two time president of  Aircraft  Pilots and Engineers, with his knowledge and experience garnered worldwide and haven operated the 7Star Hangar with so many  aircraft including the Presidential aircraft doing their various maintenance, the institution will be next to none   Balami explained, that students of the institution will have access to Hangars weekends and public holidays and each student is expected to 1,500 hours on a live aircraft loggings to know about, engine overhaul, landing gears, airframes, structure repairs, among others   He explained that at the time of graduating, the student would have had up to 7000 hours on a live aircraft   Balami added, that student will be graduating with Pilot License, Nigeria Civil Aviation  license and with the European license   He revealed that most of the trainings will supervised by some professionals from British Airways while they already have to train engineers on Boeing and Airbus which will give students opportunity to obtain such certificates   On efforts to ensure that standard was maintained, the university proprietor said, there was no going back with high standards as it took him four years to get the university approved by the government and to get the license from the NUC   Balami thanked the federal government assuring that huge capital flights abroad will be greatly reduced with the taking off of the university.