Reactions as President Tinubu Splits Nigerian Aviation College into Six Campuses

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the decentralization of the Nigerian Aviation College of Zaria and Kaduna State into six campuses, each to be located in the six geopolitical zones of the country. 

This decision, according to the President is aimed at ensuring efficiency, national coverage, and smooth operations of the aviation college 

The new campuses were said to be located in Akure (Southwest), Osubi (South-South), Ebonyi (Southeast), Ilorin (North-Central), Yola (Northeast), and Zaria (Northwest).

The move has sparked various reactions from Nigerians across the regions. While many see it as a positive step towards inclusivity and accessibility, others have raised concerns about the financial implications and sustainability of the project.

Residuals of North-Central (Kwara State)share their opinion as to the  accessibility Boost.

Speaking with Asiwaju Media, Shuaib Fatimah, speaking from Ilorin, Kwara State, shared how the distance of the college in Zaria had discouraged her cousin from attending in the past.

She said, “This reminds me of my cousin who wanted to go to the aviation college in Kaduna, but his father refused because of the distance. He said he couldn’t allow his son to school outside Kwara or Niger State.”

Fatimah praised the move, saying, “This decision by President Tinubu is a really good one because it will allow people who couldn’t travel far to access the aviation college in their own region. It’s not just for Ilorin residents but for people in neighboring states too.”

Another comment from a resident in the Northwest (Zamfara State) emphasizing on balancing the Pros and Cons.

Sanni Hafeez Galadeema from Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State acknowledged the benefits but highlighted the challenges of the plan.

“While this decision will bring aviation education closer to the people, we cannot ignore the financial burden of setting up these campuses,” he noted.

He added, “The success of this initiative will depend on proper planning. It’s essential to ensure all campuses are adequately developed without any region being left behind.”

For the Southwest (Osun State), they agree on the equitable development this changes will bring.

Salam Samad, a resident of Osun State, the splitting of the aviation college is a welcome development.

He explained, “This move will create opportunities for people in the regions hosting these campuses. The equitable distribution across the six geopolitical zones ensures no region is left out. I hope all regions take full advantage of this initiative.”

Although the Northeast (Adamawa State) sees it as aChance to Shine.

Ibrahim Musa, a student from Yola, Adamawa State, expressed his excitement about the establishment of a campus in the Northeast.

He said, “For years, we’ve felt left out when it comes to educational infrastructure in the Northeast. Having an aviation college here is a game-changer. It will inspire many youths to pursue careers in aviation.”

South-South (Delta State) concluded that the idea will help them In bridging the Gap.

Amaka Chidiebere from, Delta State, believes the move will bridge the gap in aviation knowledge and training across regions.

“This is a step in the right direction. Locating a campus here in the South-South will give young people in our region a chance to study aviation without the stress of traveling far. It’s a huge relief,” she said.

However, the Southeast (Ebonyi State) Hope for the better Future with this progress.

Chinedu Nwankwo from Ebonyi State, lauded the federal government’s decision.

He said, “For a long, the Southeast has lacked direct access to aviation education. This move gives us hope for the future, especially for our youths. It will bring jobs and development to our region.”

The splitting of the Nigerian Aviation College into six campuses has drawn mixed reactions, with most Nigerians applauding the inclusivity and accessibility it offers. However, concerns about funding and execution remain. As the government embarks on this project, all eyes will be on how well these campuses are established and managed to benefit every region.