Balami meets Bago, Buni, discusses youth enrollment into IBUAM
Chancellor of Isaac Balami University Meets with Niger and Yobe Governors
Abuja — Comrade Isaac Balami, Founding Chancellor of Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management (IBUAM), held separate meetings over the weekend with Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago and Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni in Abuja.
During these discussions, Chancellor Balami proposed a strategic initiative aimed at enrolling exceptional youth at IBUAM. He noted that this initiative has already secured commitments from several state governments across Nigeria.
Both governors expressed their support for education as a crucial tool for national development and indicated a willingness to form strategic partnerships to promote investment in youth empowerment.
In a meeting with Governor Bago, he congratulated Balami on establishing a new standard in academic excellence in Nigeria. Bago praised the university’s efforts and announced plans to visit the institution and consider enrolling students through the state’s scholarship program, including those with special needs. He 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 emphasized that the partnership could position Niger State at the forefront of youth development and academic achievement.
In his meeting with Governor Buni, the governor commended Balami for providing detailed information about IBUAM and its academic programs. Buni noted that his administration has sponsored approximately 300 students to study in India to enhance human capital in Yobe State. He acknowledged the challenges posed by fluctuations in the exchange rate but reassured that the government remains committed to ensuring student welfare.
Buni highlighted the complexities and costs associated with aviation training, recalling his personal investment in aircraft ratings for family members. He expressed satisfaction that IBUAM now provides these training opportunities locally, which reduces costs and broadens access.
Moreover, Buni announced that his administration would consider enrolling talented youth already benefiting from the state scholarship into IBUAM through its Talent Hunt initiative, which aims to identify and support promising individuals for state development.
Balami expressed gratitude for the governors’ interest and reiterated that several other state governments have shown willingness to sponsor students at IBUAM, recognized as the first indigenous aviation university in Africa offering a range of professional programs.
Currently, IBUAM has about 54 students funded by the Borno State Government actively pursuing their studies.
Sources close to the discussions noted that the initiative aligns with Governor Buni’s vision of advancing aviation and infrastructure development within the state. Observers pointed to his ongoing efforts to expand and upgrade the state’s airport, expected to enhance economic opportunities and promote the growth of the local aviation industry.
Similarly, Niger State’s agricultural transformation agenda complements its focus on aviation development. Analysts suggest that investments in aviation education and infrastructure, including air logistics and cargo services, will support large-scale farming and agro-processing activities. They contend that developing local aviation expertise is vital for strengthening the value chain and fostering economic growth, demonstrating a strategic approach to youth empowerment and sectoral development.
