By Josh Idu, Abuja.
In a significant move aimed at enhancing the efficiency and accessibility of aviation education in Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu has announced the decentralization of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT) based in Zaria, Kaduna State. The decision, which was shared by the Ondo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Wednesday via their official X account, will see the establishment of six new campuses strategically located across the country’s geopolitical zones.
The APC’s announcement highlighted the rationale behind the split, stating, “President Bola Tinubu has decided to split the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology, Zaria–Kaduna State, into six campuses to ensure efficiency, national coverage, and smooth operations.” This initiative is expected to foster greater accessibility to aviation training for aspiring professionals in the sector, thereby bolstering Nigeria’s aviation industry.
The new campuses will be located in key regions to ensure comprehensive national coverage. The Southwest will host a campus in Akure, while the South-South will have its facility in Osubi. The Southeast will see a campus established in Ebonyi. In addition, the North Central region will have a campus in Ilorin, the Northeast in Yola, and the Northwest will retain the original campus in Zaria.
This decentralization is poised to create a more robust framework for aviation education in Nigeria, allowing for a more localized approach to training and development. By situating campuses in various regions, the government aims to reduce the barriers to entry for students and professionals seeking to enter the aviation industry, ultimately contributing to the growth and modernization of Nigeria’s aviation sector.
As the country continues to navigate the complexities of its aviation landscape, this strategic initiative by President Tinubu may serve as a catalyst for improved training standards and operational efficiencies, aligning with the administration’s broader goals of national development and economic diversification.
