The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, has assured the Federal Government’s full commitment to supporting the vision of Baze University, Abuja, to establish a specialised Baze Aviation University in the Federal Capital Territory.

Keyamo gave the assurance when a delegation from Baze University, led by its Chancellor, Senator Datti Baba Ahmed, paid him a courtesy visit on Thursday in his office in Abuja.

Keyamo reaffirmed his dedication to national development, stressing that his overriding priority remains the protection of Nigeria’s interests.

According to a statement by the Ag. Head, Press and Public Affairs, Margaret Oyinboade, the minister commended the Chancellor for his passion, vision, and resilience in advancing quality education in Nigeria, noting that the proposed Aviation University aligns with the country’s quest to bridge critical skills gaps in the aviation sector.

He expressed strong support for the project, highlighting its potential to enhance national connectivity, strengthen Nigeria’s aviation ecosystem, and position the country as a hub for aviation training in the West African sub-region. He emphasized that collaboration between the University and relevant departments and agencies of the Ministry would be key to the success of the initiative.

Consequently, he directed the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Yakubu Adam Kofarmata, to work closely with the University, relevant aviation agencies, and other stakeholders to fast-track the process leading to the necessary approvals.

In his remarks, Dr. Kofarmata assured the delegation that the Ministry would accord the project priority attention, describing it as a strategic initiative for the growth of Nigeria’s aviation industry. He reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring that all required steps are taken to facilitate the establishment of the Baze Aviation University.

Earlier, the Chancellor of Baze University, Senator Datti Baba Ahmed, expressed gratitude to the Honourable Minister and the Ministry for their support.

He highlighted the University’s growth from an initial enrolment of 17 students in 2012 to over 500 graduates, emphasizing its commitment to national representation and quality education.

He disclosed that the proposed Aviation University would focus on key areas including Aviation Studies, Aeronautical Engineering, Aircraft Management, Air Traffic Control, Meteorology, as well as complementary fields such as Education, Healthcare, and Tourism, noting that the initiative would produce skilled manpower critical to economic development and technological advancement.

Also speaking, the Registrar of Baze University, Professor Abiodun Adeniyi, appreciated the Honourable Minister, the Permanent Secretary, and the management of the Ministry for the warm reception and expressed confidence in the timely establishment of the Baze Aviation University in Abuja.