The National Universities Commission (NUC) has officially granted recognition to the newly established Ebonyi State University of Aeronautics and Aerospace Engineering, located in Ezza, Ebonyi State. The letter of recognition was presented on Friday to the state’s Deputy Governor, Dr. Patricia Obila, who stood in for Governor Francis Nwifuru.
With this approval, the total number of universities in Nigeria has reached 300, of which 69 are state-owned. Ebonyi State now boasts three state-owned universities, signaling significant growth in its higher education sector.
During the presentation, the Executive Secretary of the NUC, Professor Abdullahi Ribadu, cautioned that the new university must operate strictly within the guidelines and standards established by the Commission. He explained that the NUC would conduct a resource verification visit to the institution to assess its facilities and faculty resources before it begins admitting students. Ribadu assured that the Commission would continue to support the university in achieving its mission and objectives.
Commending the Ebonyi State Government for its commitment to educational advancement, technological innovation, and youth empowerment, Ribadu stressed that the establishment of the university goes beyond merely adding to the number of institutions. He described it as a significant step toward creating a world-class center for research, innovation, and collaboration within the aerospace sector. He noted that the university’s focus on aeronautics and aerospace engineering was timely, given Nigeria’s growing need for indigenous expertise in aviation and related technologies.
Professor Ribadu further emphasized the importance of upholding academic integrity, maintaining rigorous curriculum standards, and fostering partnerships with industry leaders. He reiterated the NUC’s readiness to provide guidance and support to ensure the new university achieves its full potential. He underscored the Commission’s expectation that the institution would adhere strictly to established standards for quality assurance, curriculum development, and effective management of academic programs.
Governor Francis Nwifuru, represented at the event by Deputy Governor Patricia Obila, highlighted that the Ebonyi State University of Aeronautics and Aerospace Engineering was conceived as a specialized institution to equip Nigerians with critical skills in aviation technology and engineering. She explained that the university would not only offer specialized training but also create employment opportunities and open doors in a sector of growing global demand.
Obila expressed optimism that the university would harness the talents of citizens eager to pursue careers in aeronautics and related fields. She noted that the state recognized the need to establish the institution to cultivate local expertise and emphasized the government’s determination to make the university the first of its kind in delivering specialized aeronautical training within the region and beyond.
