The African Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU) has celebrated the matriculation of 90 students for the 2023–2024 academic session, marking a significant milestone in its mission to become a leading institution in aviation and aerospace education.
The matriculation ceremony, held in Abuja on Wednesday, was graced by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, who highlighted the university’s potential to shape the future of the industry both locally and globally.
In his address, Minister Festus Keyamo expressed his excitement at witnessing the maiden matriculation of AAAU, emphasizing the university’s role in addressing critical human resource gaps in the aviation sector. “It is with immense joy and pride that I stand before you today to witness the maiden matriculation of the African Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU). Today, we mark the beginning of a journey that will undoubtedly shape the future of aviation and aerospace in our nation and beyond,” he said.
The Minister further explained that the university was conceptualized by the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development as part of a broader strategy to ensure Nigeria keeps pace with global developments in the sector. “Our journey has been driven by a compelling vision to create a robust long-term manpower development plan, addressing the critical human resource gaps within the aviation sector,” Keyamo stated.
The AAAU is strategically positioned to become a hub of innovation and excellence in aviation education. The university recently secured a permanent site on Bill Clinton Drive, where construction has begun on several key facilities, including a Faculty of Aviation Management,!
Two auditoriumswith zma collective seating capacity of 600, a School of Postgraduate Studies, a central library, and a research center. These developments were made possible through a take-off grant for capital projects approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu through TETFund.
“This site will house the construction of a Faculty of Aviation Management, two auditoriums with a collective seating capacity of 600, a School of Postgraduate Studies, a central library, and a research center, among other key infrastructures,” said Keyamo. “Our mission is to ensure that Nigeria not only keeps pace with global developments in aviation and aerospace but also sets new standards.
The university’s curriculum has been meticulously crafted in collaboration with international experts from renowned aviation institutions, ensuring that it blends theoretical knowledge with practical experience while accommodating local peculiarities. This approach is designed to equip graduates with the skills necessary to tackle challenges in the aviation industry.
“In pursuit of this mission, we have established AAAU as a center of excellence where cutting-edge research and innovation are not just encouraged but are the cornerstone of our academic programs,” Keyamo emphasized. “The curriculum, in collaboration with international experts in the field of aviation education from renowned specialized
Aviation institutions, has been meticulously designed to blend theoretical knowledge with practical experience while tailored to fit our own local peculiarities, ensuring that our graduates are well-prepared to tackle the challenges of the aviation industry and beyond.”
Addressing the new students, Minister Keyamo encouraged them to excel in their studies and to embrace the responsibilities that come with being pioneers of AAAU. “To our new students, you are embarking on a journey that will not only shape your future but also the future of aviation and aerospace,” he said.
“You are the pioneers of this great institution, and with that comes the responsibility to set high standards and maintain good morals to pave the way for those who will follow.”
He also assured the students that a new Vice-Chancellor would soon be announced, signifying a significant step in consolidating the university’s achievements. “I am pleased to also state here that a new Vice-Chancellor will be announced soon, following the directive of Mr President. You should be rest assured that this appointment will mark a significant step in consolidating your achievements thus far,” he revealed.
The matriculation ceremony concluded with the Registrar of the University, Mustapha Sheikh Abdullahi, administering the matriculation oath to the students. The event not only marked the beginning of a new chapter for the students but also signaled the start of an exciting era for Nigeria’s aviation and aerospace education sector.
With its strategic vision, state-of-the-art facilities, and commitment to excellence, the African Aviation and Aerospace University is poised to play a pivotal role in the development of the aviation industry, both in Nigeria and on the international stage. As the university embarks on this journey, it stands ready to cultivate a new generation of skilled professionals who will lead the world in aviation and aerospace research and development.
