In a momentous occasion, the African Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU) welcomed the distinguished presence of the Minister of the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON, FCIArB (UK). The minister, having just returned from a brief trip, chose AAAU as his first stop, eager to explore the university’s cutting-edge facilities and engage with its visionary academic environment.
During the minister’s visit, an air of excitement enveloped the campus as he took the stage to share the history of AAAU’s conception and establishment. With a sense of pride, Minister Keyamo delved into the university’s strategic collaborations and affiliations with prestigious international organizations, solidifying AAAU’s commitment to global excellence.
“The esteemed University boasts affiliations and international connections with renowned organizations and schools,” remarked the minister. He highlighted the university’s innovative approach, ensuring that students receive international qualifications, including ICAO and WMO certifications for B.Sc. Aviation Business and B.Sc. Meteorology. Collaborations with esteemed entities such as the Qatar Government, Swinburne University Australia, University of Coventry UK, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia, and Emirates Aviation University, Dubai, were emphasized as pillars of AAAU’s global engagement.
Minister Keyamo continued his discourse, underlining the practical dimension of AAAU’s courses through partnerships with the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and Nigeria College of Aviation Technology (NCAT). Accredited by the Nigeria University Commission (NUC), AAAU proudly offers five distinct programs, including Bachelors in Aviation Business and Meteorology, as well as M.Sc. programs in Air Transport Management, Air Safety Management, and Applied Meteorology.
In a groundbreaking announcement, the minister revealed that AAAU had received approval from the NUC to commence postgraduate programs. The AAAU School of Postgraduate is set to open its application portal for M.Sc. programs on December 22, 2023, marking a pivotal moment for the institution.
Addressing the need for visionary leadership, Minister Keyamo disclosed the formation of a committee, chaired by Dr. Emmanuel Meribole, tasked with identifying a capable Vice-Chancellor for AAAU—a directive from the President himself.
Concluding his speech, the minister emphasized the imperative for AAAU’s expansion, given its current sharing of a building with the Nigerian Investigation Bureau (NSIB). He announced plans to allocate additional space within the NSIB training school, not only to accommodate the incoming Vice-Chancellor but also to facilitate the growth of AAAU’s faculties and programmes.