Nigerian aviation sector marked a milestone with the official unveiling of Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management (IBUAM), Africa’s first private university of aeronautics
In his remark at the unveiling ceremony on Friday in Abuja, the Proprietor and Chancellor of the institution , Isaac Balami, said the establishment of the institution was a step towards strengthening aviation in Nigeria and Africa at large.
According to him, the establishment of the university address the envisaged shortage of over 65,000 by 2040.
“This is not just a university; it is a movement to redefine aviation and leadership education in Africa. Every graduate of IBUAM will not only earn a degree but also a private pilot’s license, with options for commercial certification,” Balami stated.
On his part, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Management, Festus Keyamo, commended Isaac Balami for establishing a private university, describing it as an added achievement for present administration of president Bola Tinubu renewed agenda.
He recalled how Isaac Balami entrepreneur first presented his dream of an aviation university to him shortly after his appointment.
“The moment I was sworn in as Minister of Aviation, one of the first people who came to my office was Isaac Balami. He shared his plans for the aviation sector. I remember it was around his 39th birthday. He told me he had just established an MRO in Lagos and that the Isaac Balami University was on the way,” Keyamo said.
He expressed surprise and admiration for Balami’s initiative at such a young age, adding that he was inspired to support him until the university received approval.
“This is another feather to my cap as Minister of Aviation. I can proudly say I’ve delivered my own polling unit in this sector. This aligns with the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to support the private sector and promote human capital development — two key pillars in our five-point agenda,” Keyamo added.
He described IBUAM as a “revolutionary achievement,” noting that it is the first of its kind in Africa by combining a flying school, aviation professional training, and an aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility under one umbrella.
Also speaking, the member representing Askira Uba Federal Constituency, Hon. Midala Balami, praised the university’s founder, describing him as a symbol of resilience and determination.
He said with the unveiling of IBUAM, political opposition in Borno had been weakened, and the stage set for President Tinubu’s victory in 2027.
“Congratulations to Isaac Balami for completing 40 to 50 percent of the campaign for Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he said.
