Mr Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, says the permanent site of the African Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU) project in Abuja will be completed within 48 weeks.
Keyamo disclosed this on Wednesday in Abuja during the ground breaking of AAAU permanent site and the institution’s maiden matriculation ceremony for the 2023/2024 academy session.
According to him, the university intends to explore the possibility of partnering with the private sector for the development of hostels, clinic, conference centre and hotel due to its proximity to the airport.
“We are here today with the support of President Bola Tinubu, who approved a take-off grant for AAAU to complement the budget provision made available for the university’s development in the 2024 appropriation.
“We are confident that these projects will be completed within 48 weeks, thanks to TETFund for making the grant 100 per cent available and accessible.
“The University currently operates from a temporary campus provided by the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB),” he said.
Keyamo said that the assistance rendered by NSIB was an interagency support to AAAU.
The minister said the current place, which was designated as the permanent site, was strategically located and fit for the intended purpose.
“Structures to be completed in the first phase of development for the university include the faculty of aviation management building, the postgraduate school building, 250-capacity auditorium, 350-capacity auditorium and research centre.
“Others include the Synoptic laboratory for meteorology, multipurpose laboratory, Initial fencing covering 2 km, and two ceremonial gatehouses, ” he said.
Keyamo said that the university site was strategically positioned near the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, to provide students with invaluable practical experience and to enhance their interaction with other aviation industry agencies.
He further said that the event marked a significant milestone of the government`s efforts to bridge critical gaps in the aviation industry and address the shortage of skills training and manpower development.
“It also signifies the commencement of our dedicated endeavour to position AAAU as the leading aviation and aerospace university in Africa, diligently committed to delivering high-quality teaching and employing innovative learning techniques.
“This ambitious project presents a golden opportunity to establish a learning environment equipped with modern, safe, accessible, and sustainable facilities that zealously reflect the values of a pan-African university.
“It will play pivotal role in nurturing aviation professionals across the globe. As we gather today to embark on this new phase, I am filled with optimism as we witness transformation of this citadel of learning, ” he said.
Keyamo said the government had planned to establish AAAU as the foremost aviation university in Africa.
He said numerous challenges have been overcome, with the invaluable support of the president, to place the university on course to its rightful status.
“It is a tale of transformation from tenant to landlord.
“What began as an academic odyssey in 2023, utilising facilities belonging to a sister agency, has now culminated in the acquisition of approximately 200 hectres of land as permanent site.
“This achievement stands as a testament to our collective resilience and unwavering determination. AAAU is an institution blessed with momentum, with the obvious vibrancy and determination of the AAAU Staff,” he said.
According to him, the recent appointment of Alhaji Bukar Aji as the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the University Council and other Council members by the President, will certainly take the university to greater heights.
The minister expressed optimism that the council would ensure continuation of the infrastructural development to meet AAAU needs within and outside Nigeria.
“There will be no room for shoddy and poorly done work on site. If any contractor is found wanting or cutting corners, we will not only terminate the contract but also ensure prosecution,” he said.(NAN)