Stakeholders have thrown their weight behind the establishment of the African Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU), Abuja, during a public hearing convened by the House of Representatives Committee on Aviation Technology.
The committee, in a statement on Thursday, said the hearing was part of ongoing legislative efforts to give legal backing to the university through an Act of Parliament. When operational, the institution is expected to serve as a pioneering centre for specialised training and research in aviation and aerospace technologies across Africa.
Representatives from key industry bodies, including the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology, the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, and the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria, attended the session and made submissions in support of the bill.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Ibrahim Kana, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the project, describing legislative approval as vital for its sustainability.
Also speaking, the university’s Pro-Chancellor and former Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Goni Aji, described the public hearing as a significant milestone toward institutionalising the university.
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr Tajudeen Abbas, represented by the House Leader, Prof Julius Ihonvbere, assured that the lower chamber would fast-track the legislative process to ensure passage of the bill. Chairman of the House Committee on Aviation Technology, Tajudeen Abiodun, thanked participants for their input and pledged expedited legislative action. At the same time, Senator Patrick Ndubueze, representing the Senate Committee on Aviation Technology, promised concurrence once the bill reaches the upper chamber.
