Stakeholders in Nigeria’s aviation sector have thrown their weight behind the proposed legislation to establish the African Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU) in Abuja.

They described it as a timely intervention to address the critical manpower shortage threatening the growth of the aviation and aerospace industry in Africa.

According to them, the proposed university would position Nigeria as a continental hub for aviation research, innovation, and training.

They gave their support at a public hearing, organised by the House of Representatives Committee on Aviation Technology, yesterday, in Abuja.

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, described the proposed university as a visionary step that aligns with the ministry’s long-term agenda to make Nigeria a global aviation training hub.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr Ibrahim Abubakar, the minister said the ministry initiated AAAU in 2023 to bridge the human capacity gap in the sector and promote indigenous research and innovation.

According to him, the proposed law would give the institution a firm legal foundation and autonomy to sustain its mandate.

He commended the National Assembly for its foresight in giving legislative force to the university’s establishment, saying it would “strengthen Nigeria’s position as Africa’s aviation and aerospace leader.”

Chairman of the university’s Governing Council, Bukar Goni Aji, stated that the institution had achieved significant milestones since its inception and deserved full legal backing to consolidate its achievements.

The Registrar, Dr Mustapha Sheikh Abdullahi, noted that the university had made remarkable progress since commencing operations in 2023.

Chairman of the House Committee on Aviation Technology, Tajudeen Abisodun, said the bill represents a historic opportunity for Nigeria to lead the continent in aviation education, technology, and research.