A bill aimed at establishing the Federal College of Aviation Technology, Ilara-Remo, in Ogun State has passed the second reading in the Senate, marking a significant stride in the aviation sector.
Sponsored by Senator Olugbenga Daniel (APC-Ogun), the bill, titled the Federal College of Aviation Technology, Ilara Remo, Ogun (Establishment) Bill, 2023, was passionately presented during Wednesday’s plenary session, emphasizing its pivotal role in the advancement of aviation education.
Senator Daniel highlighted that the primary objective of the bill, initially introduced on October 10, is to elevate an existing Federal Technical College to a fully-fledged Federal College of Aviation Technology. The proposed institution is envisioned to offer full-time courses encompassing various specializations in the aviation industry and cater to the overall administration of the college and related matters.
Moreover, he underscored the profound impact of technological advancements on the aviation industry, stating, “From the early days of aviation to the present, technology has played a crucial role in improving the safety, efficiency and capabilities of aircraft.”
Emphasizing Nigeria’s progress in aviation technology, Senator Daniel remarked, “As the largest economy in Africa, Nigeria has made notable strides in the aviation sector both in terms of infrastructure and technological advancements especially in the areas of airports and infrastructure, navigation and communication Systems, Aircraft Maintenance and repair.”
However, he acknowledged prevailing challenges in the sector, including the imperative need for sustained investment in infrastructure development, enhancement of safety and security measures, as well as the encouragement of research and innovation in aviation technology.
Supporting the motion, Senator Titus Zam (APC-Benue) stressed the necessity of the bill, noting, “I realise that in the whole of Nigeria, there is only one aviation technology school located in Zaria. And given the nature of the size of the country and the volume of air travel our economy requires, one single aviation school may not be able to serve aviation needs of the country. So establishing another one in the south-west makes not only economic sense, it also makes both political and air service sense.”
Recognizing the significance of the bill, the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, referred it to the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFund for further deliberation, with a mandate to report back in four weeks.
