IBUAM Chancellor Engages Niger and Yobe Governors to Boost Youth Aviation Enrollment
Comrade Isaac Balami, the founding chancellor of the Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management (IBUAM), held strategic meetings over the weekend with the governors of Niger and Yobe states in Abuja. The discussions centered on a new initiative to enroll outstanding youths into IBUAM, with both governors expressing strong support for educational advancement and youth empowerment.
Governors Commit to Educational Partnerships and Student Sponsorship
During the meetings, Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger state commended Balami for establishing high academic standards and indicated plans to send a delegation to evaluate IBUAM's facilities in Lagos. He emphasized that Niger State would consider enrolling students, including those with special needs, through its scholarship program, aiming to position the state at the forefront of youth development.
In a separate meeting, Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe state highlighted his administration's previous efforts to sponsor students abroad, noting challenges due to exchange rate fluctuations. He expressed satisfaction that IBUAM offers local aviation training, which reduces costs, and announced that Yobe would consider enrolling exceptional youths from its Talent Hunt initiative into the university.
Background on IBUAM's Growing Impact and Previous Initiatives
Recall that the Borno state government has already sponsored 54 students at IBUAM, including Ihsan Yakubu, a Chibok girl who spoke at a matriculation ceremony about women excelling in aviation. Parents praised this initiative for its potential to transform families and the state's future.
Additionally, IBUAM recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Auxano Aviation for the purchase of 30 Jabiru J430 training aircraft, a move aimed at boosting pilot training in Nigeria and supported by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.
Balami affirmed that multiple state governments across Nigeria have shown willingness to sponsor students at IBUAM, reinforcing the university's role in fostering academic excellence and youth empowerment in the aviation sector.
