In a significant move to enhance Nigeria's aviation training capacity, the Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management (IBUAM) has finalized a major agreement for the purchase of thirty new training aircraft.
Historic Agreement Signed at Abuja Airshow
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was formally executed with Auxano Consulting Nigeria Limited, operating as Auxano Aviation, on Thursday, December 4, 2025. The signing ceremony was a highlight of the Nigeria International Airshow, held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
The event was graced by the presence of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, alongside other top officials and industry stakeholders. Minister Keyamo praised the event, declaring the 2025 airshow as "the best ever held on African soil," citing the landmark MoU as a key achievement.
The agreement was signed by IBUAM Founder and CEO, Isaac Balami, and the university's Vice Chancellor, Air Vice Marshal (Rtd) P.O. Jemitola.
Phased Delivery to Enhance Training Capacity
Under the terms of the deal, Auxano Aviation, the authorized Nigerian distributor for Jabiru Aircraft, will supply 30 Jabiru J430 training aircraft. The delivery will be structured in phases to ensure a smooth integration and sustained operational standards.
The delivery schedule is as follows:
- The first two aircraft are set to arrive in December 2025.
- Ten aircraft will be delivered in 2026.
- The final batch of eighteen aircraft will arrive in 2027, completing the order.
This phased approach, delivering roughly ten aircraft annually, is designed to allow IBUAM to scale its operations progressively while maintaining high safety and maintenance standards. Some aircraft will arrive fully assembled, while others will be delivered in parts and assembled locally by IBUAM in partnership with 7Star Global Airlines, providing valuable hands-on experience for students.
Technical Support and Strategic Impact
The MoU outlines comprehensive support from Auxano Aviation, which extends beyond mere supply. The company will provide aircraft registration support, airworthiness documentation, initial spares, tools, and handbooks. Furthermore, they will conduct familiarisation training for IBUAM instructors and maintenance crews, and offer ongoing technical oversight.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Jemitola hailed the acquisition as a "major investment in Nigeria’s aviation workforce," positioning IBUAM as a leading centre for world-class pilot training in Africa. He emphasized that the phased model supports sustainable growth.
Founder Isaac Balami stressed the importance of the annual delivery structure for maintaining operational excellence. "Receiving 10 aircraft every year allows us to scale progressively and maintain high safety and operational standards," he stated. He also commended Auxano Aviation for supplying critical expertise alongside the aircraft, which will help the university uphold Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) compliant practices.
The aircraft will be used strictly for student pilot training, aeronautical research, and approved flight operations. IBUAM is obligated to maintain NCAA standards, employ only qualified personnel, and provide adequate hangarage and security for the fleet.
This partnership is expected to significantly boost Nigeria's capacity to produce skilled aeronautical professionals, strengthening research, flight operations training, and the general aviation sector in the country.
