The Federal Government has restated its plan to establish the African Aviation and Aerospace University, with academic activities scheduled to commence in September 2023. The Ministry of Aviation signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Nile University of Nigeria for the commencement of the academic activities of the university. The move is intended to address research and development gaps in the aviation sector.
The Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, who signed the MoU on behalf of the government, revealed that the university would offer an undergraduate course in aviation business and meteorology. Furthermore, the university has hired its management team and created an academic brief. Sirika added that the institution would provide physical and online courses for its students and be governed by the Federal Government but managed by the private sector through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement.
The African Aviation and Aerospace University would aid the unification and integration of Africa in all fields and human endeavours. It is the first institution of its kind in Africa and has received attention from countries, universities, and organisations globally. International Civil Aviation Organisation has indicated interest to partner with the aviation university. In the future, the institution intends to provide a Master of Science in Aviation Management.
The Vice-Chancellor of Nile University of Nigeria, Prof. Dilli Dogo, promised to give the aviation university full support to ensure a smooth take-off. The collaboration between the AAAN and NUN will bring more research and collaboration to establish the institution. Dogo praised the initiative and noted that the aviation university would benefit Nigerians and the African continent.