Author: user user

Troops of Joint Task Force, Operation Enduring Peace (JTF-OPEP) have arrested a suspected gunrunner and his wife in Saminaka, Lere Local Government Area (LGA) of Kaduna State.

Maj. Samson Zhakom, the Media Officer of the operation disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday in Jos.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that JTF-OPEP is a special task force saddled with the responsibility of maintaining peace in Plateau and parts of Kaduna and Bauchi states.

Zhakom said that the 40 and 18 years-old suspects were apprehended on Oct. 8, by its troops in collaboration with Operation Fansan Yamma (OPFY).

‘In a coordinated operation to enhance security across the Joint Operations Area, troops JTF OPEP in collaboration with that of OPFY tracked and apprehended two notorious gunrunners.

‘The suspects were intercepted at a snap checkpoint established by the joint troops of JTF OPEP and OPFY at the outskirts of Saminaka in Lere LGA.

‘The operation, prompted by auctionable intelligence from an intelligence agency in Plateau, led to the recovery of 1,207 rounds of 7.62 mm (Special) ammunition.

‘The ammunition was believed to be bound for armed groups operating in the North West region of the country,’he said.

The media officer said that suspects and other items recovered are currently in its custody undergoing further investigation.

On Saturday, October 11, 2025, the picturesque town of Ile-Isoya in Ife, Osun State, played host to an array of high-profile guests and a significant cultural event as media entrepreneur and public relations expert, Oladapo Adekunle Sofowora, was honoured with the chieftaincy title of Bashorun Ile-Isoya Ife.

The ceremony, presided over by His Royal Majesty, Oba Muriana Adedinni, the Asoya of Ile-Isoya Ife, coincided with the Oba’s 15th coronation anniversary, marking a double celebration steeped in tradition and significance.

The installation rites commenced in the grand palace, where many dignitaries and fellow kings gathered to witness this momentous occasion. Dressed in vibrant, traditional Aso-Oke attire adorned in wine and green hues, Oladapo was accompanied by his wife, Mrs Adunola Sofowora, mother Mrs Olufunke Sofowora, Aare Bashir Olawale Fakorede, and Princess Toyin Kolade Iyalaje Oodua as they participated in rituals that underscored the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people.

The ceremony was imbued with prayers and blessings, culminating in Oladapo being crowned with a ceremonial chieftaincy cap. The Asoya presented him with intricate neck and hand beads, a staff, and an official certificate, affirming his new position as Bashorun Ile-Isoya.

A successful businessman, media consultant, and the founder of Rudder Blade Global Company, Oladapo made it a point to celebrate this significant milestone with an extravagant reception that welcomed friends, family, and associates. The soirée was a lavish affair, featuring an impressive array of high-end beverages and a culinary feast that delighted all attending guests. He spared no cost to ensure everyone who attended was treated like royalty.

The London School of Journalism-trained publisher of Cityspy Newspaper took the opportunity to express his gratitude for the title, which he believes reflects his unwavering commitment to the development of Yorubaland and, by extension, Nigeria. His contributions to cultural initiatives and developmental programs locally and abroad have been pivotal in uplifting the Yoruba community.

In 2024, Oladapo was recognized with the UNESCO Children of African Descent Award in New York, a testament to his dedication to social causes and the fight against human trafficking. Following the installation ceremony, he was graciously received by Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Babatunde Ogunwusi Ojaja II CFR at his majestic palace in Ile-Ife. The Ooni offered prayers and heartfelt congratulations, urging Oladapo to continue prioritising the interests of Yorubaland and to uphold the cherished Omoluabi Mantra, which emphasises integrity, honour, and community-oriented values.

This historic event not only solidifies Oladapo Sofowora’s rightful place within the cultural tapestry of Yoruba tradition but also inspires a renewed focus on collective growth and development for the region.

Coach Eric Sekou Chelle has expressed satisfaction over the performance of the Super Eagles following their 4-0 win over Benin Republic in the decisive MatchDay 10 World Cup qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo yesterday.

Nigeria clinched a World Cup playoffs spot after finishing with 17 points in Group C with just one point behind Group winners, South Africa, much to the delight of the Franco-Malian trainer.

‘I’m so proud of my players, they deserve the win in this game because it was not easy with a new coach, a new philosophy. This is just the beginning, things are not finished and it will be very difficult as we have to go to Morocco.

He added: ‘ I’m just really happy for my players because they played a great game, just as they did against Lesotho few days ago.’

Galatasaray forward Victor Osimhen netted a hat trick before Frank Onyeka scored the fourth goal late in the game. Eric Chelle called Victor Osimhen ‘best striker in the world’ following his heroics on Tuesday.

‘All my players played well against Benin Republic especially Victor Osimhen, who is the best striker in the world,’ Chelle chuckled. ‘We lose together as a team and we win together as a team.’

Determined to earn a place in next year’s FIFA World Cup in the North America, the Super Eagles yesterday produced a four-star performance with a comprehensive 4-0 thrashing of Benin Republic while axe striker Victor Osimhen netted a hat trick at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

The Galatasaray forward opened the floodgate for the Super Eagles as early as the third minute, finishing off a brilliant assist from Samuel Chukwueze after a swift attacking move.He doubled Nigeria’s advantage in the 37th minute again after being teed up by Chukwueze.

The Super Eagles continued their dominance after the break and Osimhen completed his hat-trick in the 51st minute , heading home a chipped pass from Moses Simon.

Substitute Frank Onyeka put the icing on the cake in the 90th minute with probably

the best goal of the day with a fine volley , sealing an emphatic 4-0 victory for the Super Eagles.

Meanwhile, South Africa beat Rwanda 3-0 in Nelspruit to finish first in Group C as Benin, who had a two-point lead going into the final round of fixtures, tumbled from top place to third in the standings after being thumped 4-0 in Uyo.

South Africa finished on 18 points, with Nigeria runners-up ahead of Benin on goal difference as both ended with 17 points.

Ironically, South Africa had three points deducted last month after being found guilty of fielding a suspended player in an earlier qualifier in March, a mistake they admitted.

But that will be largely forgotten now as South Africa qualified for the first time since they hosted the finals in 2010.

Thalente Mbatha scored after five minutes, and Oswin Appollis netted the second in the 21st minute to put South Africa on their way. Striker Evidence Makgopa made it 3-0 in the 72nd minute with a header from a corner.

In related development, Gabon and Cameroon are the two countries ahead of Nigeria presently in the new table for second-placed teams across the nine groups, going CAF’s new method of calculating the second-placed teams following the withdrawal of Eritrea from the race. Nigeria bagged 15 points with a goals’ difference of plus seven, as against Burkina Faso’s 15 points and goals’ difference of plus six.

Either Burkina Faso or the Democratic Republic of Congo (playing at home to Sudan on Tuesday night) will join the trio for the battles of Morocco next month.

The winner in Morocco will proceed to the Six-Team Intercontinental Playoff, scheduled for the Mexican cities of Guadalajara and Monterrey in March next year, where two teams will emerge and qualify for the finals in USA, Canada and Mexico.

The winner from the African playoff will be joined by Bolivia, New Caledonia and two teams from Central America, and one from Asia.

No fewer than 1,000 children and teenagers have been trained in digital skills by the Glow Foundation for Children Empowerment and Development, as part of its annual outreach programme to equip young people with tools for the future.

The conference, tagged ‘1000 2.0,’ held in FESTAC Town, Lagos, featured a range of activities, including digital literacy classes, tech empowerment sessions, awards and scholarships, exclusive mentorship slots, spiritual upliftment and blessings, as well as games.

The children, aged between six and 18, were exposed to practical training in digital marketing, graphic design, and data analytics, while selected participants will enjoy full scholarships for advanced learning with partner organisations.

Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Glow Foundation, Opeyemi Deborah Idowu, said the project stemmed from her desire to ‘do something beyond herself’ and help children, particularly those from marginalised communities.

‘I started in 2018 by visiting orphanages on my birthdays instead of hosting parties. The joy I felt convinced me that I couldn’t stop. Today, Glow Foundation is reaching thousands of children and giving them hope,’ she said.

She explained that the foundation, which was officially registered in 2022, has, in three years, impacted thousands of children through skills acquisition and empowerment. Last year alone, it reached more than 7,000 children across 44 coastal communities in Ibeju-Lekki, teaching them vocational skills such as hairdressing, baking, soap making, and craft work.

‘This year, we decided to move beyond the slums to focus on digital empowerment. We are preparing children for the digital future. Beyond this training, we will be enrolling some of them on scholarships and working with partners to provide laptops and digital devices,’ Idowu added.

Director of Strategic Development and Partnerships at the foundation, Kehinde Adelakin, said the initiative has grown steadily from 1,000 children in 2021 to over 7,000 in 2023, thanks to collaborations with schools, NGOs, churches, and community groups.

He stressed that the mentorship element introduced this year will sustain the training.

‘I personally mentored four participants in data analytics. Other facilitators are mentoring children in digital marketing and graphic design. We also distributed books, school bags, and other learning materials donated by our partners,’ he said.

According to him, the foundation enjoys the support of more than 50 partners and sponsors, including OASIS International and Nobunga Security, who have consistently backed the programmes.

The foundation also announced plans to establish a tuition-free secondary school in Lagos, targeted at children from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Idowu maintained that funding challenges will not deter the vision:

‘With God’s love driving us, and with consistent partnerships, we can only grow bigger and better. Our mission is to help children see beyond their limitations and believe in the greatness within them,’ she said.

Digital marketing expert Martins Nkemakolam urged children to embrace digital marketing skills early in life to prepare them for the future of work and enable them to earn income even while in school.

Speaking on the importance of the topic, he explained that digital marketing has become one of the most vital skills in today’s world, stressing that early exposure will empower young people to thrive in an increasingly digital economy.

‘The world is becoming digital, and every day there’s something new to learn. Digital marketing has come to stay. You don’t need to go out to sell your products anymore – you can do it from the comfort of your home,’ he said.

He added that many business owners now rely on skilled marketers to manage their online presence, noting that if young people begin to learn these skills early, they can start earning while still in school.

‘If they have this knowledge at a young age, by the time they get into the university, they’ll already be grounded. They can earn extra income while studying, and by the time they graduate, they’ll be professionals who can impact others. This will create a cycle of empowerment,’ he stated.

Explaining his approach to engaging the children, Nkemakolam said he intends to simplify his teaching so that even younger participants can understand and share what they learn with their peers and parents.

‘I’ll break it down in a way that even a six or seven-year-old can understand. Though it’s not primarily for that age group, I want them to grasp the basics and be able to talk about it with others,’ he said.

Drawing from personal experience, he revealed that he began his journey into digital marketing at 17, during his school days, and believes that with the availability of modern tools, it’s now even easier for young learners to acquire these skills.

Nkemakolam also addressed concerns about artificial intelligence (AI) taking over human jobs, emphasizing that technology still depends on human control and innovation.

‘People say AI will take your job – but AI cannot just take your job; you have to program it. You must build yourself too. When you get to that point, AI will still be answerable to you because it is humans who automate and give commands,’ he said.

He encouraged the children to view technology as an opportunity rather than a threat and to position themselves as creators and innovators in the digital space.

‘The key lesson I want them to take home,’ he concluded, ‘is that as the world evolves, they too must evolve. Learn the skills, stay relevant, and be ready to lead the change.’

At the end of the training, Idowu delivered an inspiring message to the children, urging them to stay focused, avoid negative influences, choose their friends wisely, and strive to be responsible citizens.

Piqued by incessant disasters across the country, the Federal Fire Service (FFS) has commenced initiatives to audit public and private buildings to ensure compliance with building regulations and the safety of lives and properties.

The Controller General of the FFS, Olumode Samuel Adeyemi, has inaugurated a Special Task Force on Public and Private Buildings Audit to carry out the assignments.

Adeyemi said the Task Force became necessary considering recent developments in Nigeria, where lives and properties were being lost to fire incidents that could not have happened in the first place if those concerned had adhered strictly to building regulations.

Adeyemi, who performed the inauguration at the Service Headquarters in Abuja, made references to the recent Afriland tower fire disaster in Lagos and the infernos that gutted several plazas in Abuja. He said the development is unacceptable and should be stopped through a proactive mechanism.

‘The frequency of these incidents underscores the urgency of enforcing safety standards. Fire safety is not a choice but a shared responsibility,’ the Controller General said.

He said the Task Force should immediately begin mapping public buildings across the country, classifying them by risk levels, inspecting compliance, and submitting actionable recommendations to guide enforcement and policy decisions.

The Task Force is chaired by Assistant Controller General Bolarinde Muhammed, Head of the Inspection, Investigation, and Enforcement Department. It also comprises senior officers from Operations, Legal, and Public Relations units of the Service.

The Controller General urged members of the Task Force to carry out their mandate with professionalism and integrity. He also called on property owners and managers of high-rise and public facilities to cooperate fully with the audit team.

Adeyemi expressed the commitment of the Service to protect lives, property, and critical infrastructures across the country, emphasising that prevention of fire disasters through compliance was now non-negotiable.

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja on Tuesday inaugurated legal luminary, Chief Niyi Akintola (SAN), Musibau Adetunbi (SAN), Yinka Okunade, Rahman Abiodun AbdulRaheem and Tunji Thomas to tackle the menace of land grabbing in the ancient city

Noting that hard times await land grabbers who are giving Ibadan a bad reputation at the Olubadan Palace, Oke Aremo, Ibadan where the inauguration held, the monarch said the five-member committee of legal practitioners is charged with the task of tackling the problem of land grabbing from the legal perspective.

He urged the Committee to co-opt anybody from any profession, including town planning, survey, security agencies, the bar and bench who could assist in giving them sufficient greenlight to fight the scourge.

Barrister Musibau Adetunbi SAN was however absent during the inauguration.

Flanked by members of Olubadan-in-council, Oba Ladoja said the Oyo State Government, the Olubadan-in-council were on the same page in ridding Ibadan of the menace of land grabbing.

According to him, land grabbing is like an interlocking web of complex connections involving diverse interests that need to be unravelled.

The Olubadan said: ‘I know each of you very well. While we entertain no illusion as to the gravity of your responsibility, I have no doubt in my mind that you have the capacity to carry out the responsibility’

He told the Committee to hit the ground running, giving them 21 days within which to make their recommendations.

The Olubadan, however, clarified that the inauguration of the legal advisory committee was meant to strengthen the existing committee on land matters headed by Mogaji Asimiyu Ariori.

Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, corroborated Olubadan’s position, saying it had become desirable for Ibadan to take stringent action against the menace of land grabbing because it has constantly put the people in harm’s way.

He said, if it were possible, there should be the establishment of anti-land grabbing tribunals in all the eleven local governments councils in Ibadanland.

Responding on behalf of the committee, Chief Akintola expressed the members’ gratitude to Olubadan and Olubadan-in-council for giving them the privilege to serve their fatherland.

Saying their inauguration is a call to serve their fatherland, the committee sought the co-operation and support of state government and Ibadan people in checkmating the menace of land grabbing.

He noted that the government was not favourably disposed to land grabbing either, and as such, the anti-land grabbing advisory committee would strengthen the state government’s resolve to tackle the same menace.

Chief (Mrs) Olaitan Victoria Abiodun, educationist, businesswoman, and community leader, is 90.

As the Book of Psalms proclaims, it is the Lord’s doing and it is marvelous in our sight. As the day begins with songs of praise, Mama will lack the company of her husband of many years and praise and worship partner, Dr. Emmanuel Adesanya Abiodun, fondly called Baba Teacher, but she will be surrounded by the love, warmth and presence of her dear children, including the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun (MFR, CON); her grandchildren, extended family members, friends and well-wishers. In a country where life expectancy is just a little above 54 years, it is great, in fact glorious, to be 90, hale and hearty, basking in the grace of Almighty God: the celebrations have been fully deserved.

The years have not been without challenges, obstacles, many of them daunting, but as the Holy Writ declares, there is a compassion from on high that is new every morning, and faithfulness that is great. It is too lofty to be properly captured in words.

Mama at 90 is not about sagacity, design, or intention: it is the sheer mercy and love of the Almighty: pure, boundless, and unfeigned. To live to be 90 in a country plagued by many ills, and having fought so many battles, calls for precisely the thanksgiving that Mama and her family and friends are offering today. Let us all join Mama in her feast of thanksgiving.

Born on the 15th of October, 1935, to the family of Mr Raji Alli Balogun and Mrs Adijatu Kubura Alli Sobowale in Iperu Remo, Ogun State, Chief (Mrs.) Olaitan Victoria Abiodun began her primary education at Bishop Oluwole Memorial Primary School, Agege, Lagos, and later proceeded to St James. Anglican Primary School, Iperu, where she completed her primary education in 1955.

In 1956, she started teaching at the African Church Primary School, Iperu, also known as Bethel. The desire to acquire more knowledge took her to the Teacher Training College, Iperu, where she obtained her Grade 3 certificate. It was time to be posted to St Paul’s Anglican Primary school, Ijokun, Sagamu, where she taught from 1958 to 1962.

In 1963, she got admission into the Teachers Training College, Idi-Aba, Abeokuta, for her Grade 2 certificate. Armed with that certificate, she worked at IJABCOL Grade 2 Teacher Training College and Modern School in Iperu, and in 1968, she moved with her husband to Ayetoro Egbado (now Yewa North).

Her husband taught at the Comprehensive High School, Ayetoro, while she was transferred to United Primary School, Ayetoro, where she taught till early 1971 when she moved to Ondo town with her husband who had just joined the staff of the prestigious Adeyemi College of Education, Ondo, an institution affiliated to the then University of Ife, now Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. She taught at the Local Authority School (1) in Ondo, then in October 1972, she gained admission into Adeyemi, where she studied Home Economics. After her graduation, she was posted to Ondo High School, Ondo, where she was made the head of the Home Economics Department. And this was where she retired in 1986, following which she took up trading and extended her frontiers far and wide.

At 90, Chief (Mrs.) Victoria Olaitan Abiodun stands as a living testimony to grace, faith, and enduring values: her life reflects devotion to family, service, and community. As she says, ‘I feel deeply grateful to God. Ninety years is not a small journey. It’s been grace all through – grace that carried me through marriage, motherhood, teaching, and service to my community.’

Life as a child, she recalls, was modest but meaningful: ‘We valued hard work, honesty, and community. Education was our key to freedom, and that belief guided everything I did.’ Her marriage was great: ‘My late husband and I were both teachers. We both believed teaching was more than a job – it was a ministry. ‘Baba Teacher,’ as people called him, used to say that when you teach a child, you are shaping the world. We wanted to shape lives, and we gave our hearts to it. In those days, there was no social media – only purpose and prayer. We met through mutual friends in Ibadan, both of us teachers, and we shared the same values. We married in 1960, and it was the beginning of a long, blessed journey. I had 65 years of marriage, a rare blessing.’

The Ogun State Governor is her firstborn born and the bond between mother and son is indeed cast in stone; unbreakable. As the American writer Sara Hale says, there is no influence so powerful as that of the mother. Sometimes the strength of motherhood is greater than natural laws, says the Pulitzer Prize-winning American novelist, essayist, and poet, Barbara Kingsolver; and that is why the great Abraham Lincoln crafted these unforgettable lines: ‘All that I am, or ever hope to be, I owe to my angel mother.’ For Dapo Abiodun, and in the words of the poet, Emily Dickinson, a mother is one to whom you hurry when you are troubled. Mama is her son’s unceasing fountain of support, who trained him to be ready to dare and to go against the norm to set new standards. During his 42nd birthday in Ikoyi, Lagos, she spoke glowingly about him, saying with pride, ‘I am the one and only mother of Dapo Abiodun.’

She trained her children well, and her counsel, combined with great vision, has given the Gateway State a Governor turning barren land into construction sites. Go to the Gateway Airport and see wonders in architecture and engineering; go to Olumo Rock and see the power of renewal. Go to the MKO Stadium and see what it means to have a Governor imbued with strategic foresight.

Her pride in her son is not just because he’s the Governor, but because he has remained humble and focused on service. Her word to him as he hits 90 cheers is to fear God, listen to advice, and never forget the poor: power should bring compassion, not arrogance. The key to success, she avers, is to work hard, respect elders, and build your future with integrity. Why? ‘The world is moving fast, but good character never goes out of fashion.’

Her words are indeed words on marble, and are fitting in closing this piece, ‘I believe in quiet strength. You don’t have to shout to lead. I speak when it is necessary, and I stand by the truth. That is how I was raised, and that is how I raised my children. I want women to see themselves as builders of homes, of society. Women, support your husbands, raise your children well, and never stop learning. Women carry the soul of the nation. My greatest legacy is a good name.

The Bible says a good name is better than riches. If people remember me as a woman of faith, discipline, and love, I am fulfilled. I pray for peace – peace in Nigeria, peace in Ogun State, and peace in every home. May God guide our leaders, bless our children, and let the light of truth never go out in our land.’

Happy Birthday, Mama Olaitan Victoria Abiodun, and many glorious returns. Here’s wishing Mama many more years in sound health and joy of heart.

Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Media and Public Communication, Dr Daniel Bwala, has begun renewed strategic engagements with more than 100 support groups nationwide, in a move aimed at consolidating grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections.

At a ‘Meet and Greet with the spokesman’ session held Tuesday evening in Abuja, Bwala said the interaction was part of efforts to sustain the political momentum behind President Tinubu and strengthen citizen participation in his administration’s reform agenda.

‘We thought that as part of the strategy to spread the gains of this administration, it is good we connect with the source-the support groups-engage with them, appreciate what they have been doing, and then ask them to do more for the love of the country and for the love of the President,’ Bwala told journalists after the meeting.

He said the meeting provided an avenue to receive feedback from grassroots stakeholders on key issues affecting citizens and the administration’s reform trajectory.

‘We are moving away from renewed hope to recovery, and that recovery must be felt in their own lives,’ he added.

Bwala noted that leaders of the support groups came from all parts of Nigeria, with some participants arriving from the United Kingdom.

He disclosed that the engagements would soon extend to the diaspora, with town hall meetings planned for the UK, the United States, and Canada.

‘Hopefully, by November, when we have the first town hall with the progressives and all support groups across platforms, we will determine the frequency of our engagements. It’s all about governance. People wait until election time to seek support groups. That is not right. They are not tools to be used; they are partners in the process,’ he explained.

The presidential aide maintained that President Tinubu views support groups as vital partners in governance and nation-building, not just instruments of political campaigns.

‘Unlike other politicians, the President believes the groups, especially the youths, must be part of the governance and the progress of the administration,’ he said.

Reflecting on the administration’s record, Bwala asserted that ‘over the last two years, as the President restructured the economy, we are seeing the fruits. When we prepare everyone and go to the field, you will see across all platforms-economy, security, job creation, education, infrastructure, and agriculture-that these groups will continue to carry the message.’

He insisted that President Tinubu’s leadership has earned him the right to seek the continued support and affection of Nigerians.

‘In my humble opinion, Mr. President has done enough at this time, as far as governance is concerned, to demand not just the people’s support, but their love and commitment to what his government has started,’ he said.

Also speaking at the event, former lawmaker Hon. Ehiozuwa Johnson Agbonayinma, expressed confidence that President Tinubu would be re-elected in 2027, citing his administration’s ‘superlative performance’ across key sectors.

‘Whether you like it or not, Mr. President, come 2027, will be re-elected. That’s the confirmation you can take away from this wonderful meeting. Yes, we are not where we used to be, and we are not yet where we ought to be, but we are progressing. The President is doing everything to fast-track that progression’, Agbonayinma said.

Agbonayinma praised the removal of fuel subsidy as one of Tinubu’s boldest reforms, noting that the trillions of naira saved are now being channelled to states for grassroots development.

He called on all Nigerians to join hands in consolidating the nation’s progress, stressing that ‘collective responsibility is essential to sustain the gains of this administration and to move Nigeria forward.’

The purpose of the event was to gather insights from the President’s diverse network of support groups for onward transmission to the President, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to inclusive governance and grassroots participation in policy communication.

Among the notable groups represented were the Tinubu Support Group (TSG), Tinubu Door-2-Door, National Progressives Hub (NPH), The Asiwaju Group (TAG), Nigeria Diaspora for Asiwaju (NDA), Advocate for Good Governance (AGG), BAT Vanguard, Renewed Hope HQ, BAT Ambassadors, and The Think-Tinubu Initiative (3TI).

Others included Renewed Hope Agenda Advocacy, Youth Alliance 4 Tinubu and Shettima (YATS), Pragmatic Elites for Asiwaju and Shettima (PREFAS), City Boy Movement, PBAT Academics and Professors, Progressive Alliance, Tinubu School 2 School, PBAT Media Centre, Tinubu National Alliance, and the APC National Support Group, among others – all reaffirming their commitment to sustaining the Renewed Hope Agenda and amplifying the administration’s reform successes across the country.

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

Speaking at a public hearing organised by the House of Representatives Committee on Aviation Technology on Wednesday, stakeholders from government, academia, and industry emphasized that the proposed university would position Nigeria as a continental hub for aviation research, innovation, and training.

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar, 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.

He 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.

‘The African Aviation and Aerospace University represents more than an educational institution; it is the future of aviation manpower development on the continent,’ Dr. Abubakar said.

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, Alhaji Bukar Goni Aji, said the institution had recorded significant milestones since its inception and deserved full legal backing to consolidate its achievements.

He explained that the Federal Government had already allocated 200 hectares of land along Bill Clinton Drive, Abuja, as the permanent site of the university, with several structures completed and relocation already in progress.

‘The passage of this Bill will enhance confidence in the university’s credentials, attract global collaborations, and ensure sustainable funding mechanisms,’ Aji said.

‘It will also help Nigeria achieve its vision of becoming Africa’s leading aviation training and innovation hub.’

Registrar of AAAU, Dr. Mustapha Sheik Abdullahi, who represented the management, staff, and students, noted that the university had made remarkable progress since commencing operations in 2023 with executive approval from the Federal Government.

He said AAAU had secured necessary accreditations from the National Universities Commission (NUC) and the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), and currently runs over seven accredited programmes at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, with pioneer postgraduate students set to graduate this year.

Abdullahi disclosed that the university had also conducted executive capacity-building programmes for key aviation agencies, training over 300 staff of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB).

‘Our support for this Bill is total,’ he said. ‘It will provide the legal framework needed to expand our reach, attract global partnerships, and fulfill Nigeria’s and Africa’s aviation manpower needs.’

The Rector of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Capt. Danjuma Ismail said the college fully supports the establishment of AAAU, describing it as a complementary effort rather than a competing one.

He noted that while NCAT focuses on professional pilot and technical training, AAAU would fill the academic and research gaps by offering advanced degrees and fostering innovation in the aviation industry.

‘Many aviation professionals lack access to postgraduate qualifications. The new university will provide that pathway.

‘We are already collaborating with AAAU by providing instructors and technical support, and we urge the National Assembly to pass the Bill without delay.’

Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, also supported the establishment of the university, stressing that aviation and aerospace disciplines require not just academic knowledge but also a strong institutional culture of discipline, compliance, and safety.

He said the Nigerian Air Force, with its long-standing experience in aviation education, recognized the strategic value of AAAU in advancing national security, economic growth, and Africa’s regional leadership in aerospace technology.

Quoting data from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and Boeing’s 2024 forecast, Abubakar said Africa would require over 70,000 new aviation professionals between 2025 and 2044, including 23,000 pilots and 24,000 technicians, underscoring the urgency of capacity development.

‘The establishment of AAAU is not just desirable, it is imperative,’ he said. ‘But it must embed discipline in governance, curriculum, and student conduct to produce professionals who can meet global standards.’

Declaring the public hearing open, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas described the initiative as a ‘major step toward transforming Nigeria’s aviation landscape.’

He said the university would equip Nigerians with advanced skills, reduce dependence on foreign training, and encourage research that supports safety and innovation.

‘This initiative will position Nigeria as a hub for aviation and aerospace in Africa,’ Abbas said. ‘I urge all stakeholders to support this Bill so we can build a robust and sustainable aviation ecosystem.’

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

He emphasised that the university’s governance structure provides for integrity, accountability, and autonomy, enabling it to meet global standards.

‘This university is not just for Nigeria, it is for Africa. It’s a bold declaration that we are ready to lead, innovate, and educate at the highest levels. Let us rise to this occasion with vision, unity, and purpose,’ Abisodun said.