Balami meets Bago, Buni to advance youth enrollment at Aviation University

The Founding Chancellor of Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management (IBUAM), Comrade Isaac Balami, convened separate meetings over the weekend with the Governors of Niger State, Mohammed Umaru Bago, and Yobe State, Mai Mala Buni, in Abuja.

During these discussions, Chancellor Balami introduced a strategic initiative to enroll outstanding youths into IBUAM. He noted that the initiative has already garnered commitments from multiple state governments across Nigeria.

The governors expressed their support for the role of education in fostering national development and committed to exploring strategic partnerships to promote investment in youth empowerment.

In his meeting with Governor Bago, the latter congratulated Balami on establishing a new academic standard within the country. Bago expressed admiration for the university’s commitment and indicated his intention to inspect the institution and consider enrolling students, including those with special needs, through the state’s scholarship program.

Bago stated, “I am familiar with your work, Balami, and have read positive reports about your university. As part of Niger State policy, I will dispatch a delegation to Lagos to evaluate your facilities both at the airport and on campus.”

Balami affirmed that the partnership could position Niger State at the forefront of youth development and academic excellence.

In the subsequent meeting, Governor Buni also commended Balami for providing comprehensive information about IBUAM and its programs. Buni recounted that his administration sponsored approximately 300 students to study in India to enhance human capital in Yobe State.

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He noted that fluctuations in the exchange rate threatened to disrupt these efforts, but affirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring students’ welfare.

Buni emphasized the cost and complexity of aviation training, recalling how he personally financed aircraft type ratings and certifications for family members. He expressed satisfaction that IBUAM now offers such training locally, reducing costs and opening new opportunities.

Furthermore, Buni announced that his administration would consider enrolling exceptional youth already benefiting from the state scholarship into IBUAM through its Talent Hunt initiative, which seeks to identify and support talented individuals for the development of the state.

Balami expressed appreciation for the governors’ interest and reaffirmed that several other state governments have expressed willingness to sponsor students at IBUAM, which is recognized as the first indigenous aviation university in Africa and offers diverse professional programs.

Currently, about 54 students sponsored by the Borno State Government have commenced studies at the university.

Individuals familiar with the discussions noted that the initiative aligns with Governor Buni’s vision of advancing aviation and infrastructure development. They highlighted his ongoing efforts to expand and upgrade the state’s airport, which are expected to enhance economic opportunities and foster growth of the local aviation industry.

Similarly, the agricultural transformation agenda in Niger State complements the focus on aviation development. Observers suggest that investments in aviation education and infrastructure—such as air logistics and cargo services—will support the expansion of large-scale farming and agro-processing activities. They stated that developing local aviation expertise will strengthen the value chain and foster economic growth, demonstrating a strategic approach to youth empowerment and sectoral development.