Warning against substandard construction work, Festus Keyamo (SAN), the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, has declared strict actions towards any contractor caught engaging in malpractices.
Speaking at the groundbreaking event for the permanent site of the African Aviation and Aerospace University in Abuja, the minister emphasized a zero-tolerance policy for shortcuts.
“Any contractor found compromising on quality will not only have their contract terminated but will also face prosecution,” Keyamo affirmed.
Addressing concerns about job prospects for graduates, he reassured that the demand for aviation experts in Nigeria ensures employment opportunities for AAAU alumni.
During the matriculation ceremony for the pioneer batch of 30 undergraduate and 60 postgraduate students, Keyamo disclosed the university’s commitment to excellence through advanced research and innovation.
He highlighted the collaboration with international aviation education specialists, underscoring AAAU’s curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with practical hands-on experience tailored to local requirements.
Assuring students of imminent leadership changes, Keyamo mentioned the forthcoming announcement of a new Vice-Chancellor pending President Bola Tinubu’s approval.
“I am pleased to inform you that a new Vice-Chancellor will soon be unveiled, following the directive of Mr. President. This appointment signifies a significant milestone in your academic journey,” he assured.
Commending the partnership between AAAU and the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau, the minister lauded their collaborative efforts as a blueprint for interagency cooperation.
Detailing the construction plans for the university’s new site, Keyamo revealed upcoming infrastructural developments including the Faculty of Aviation Management, two auditoriums, a postgraduate school, a central library, and a research center.
Highlighting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s role in securing grants for capital projects through TETFund, he acknowledged the pivotal support essential for realizing the university’s vision.
Expressing gratitude for Tinubu’s unwavering support, Keyamo emphasized the alignment of the university’s growth with the government’s agenda, particularly in addressing the aviation sector’s human resource needs.
Anticipating completion within 48 weeks, Keyamo credited TETFund’s full grant accessibility for enabling swift progress in the university’s development projects.
Looking ahead, he outlined future collaborations with the private sector to enhance facilities such as hostels, a clinic, a conference center, and a hotel, leveraging the site’s proximity to the airport.
Recognizing Tinubu’s efforts in overcoming obstacles and steering the university towards progress, Keyamo extolled the journey from tenancy to land ownership, symbolizing a transformative evolution for the institution.”It is a tale of transformation from tenant to landlord. What began as an academic odyssey in 2023, utilizing facilities belonging to a sister agency, has now culminated in the acquisition of approximately 200 hectares of land as a permanent site,” he concluded.