BY NGOZI A NWANKWO

The National Universities Commission (NUC) has granted an operational licence for the establishment of Ebonyi State University of Aeronautics and Aerospace Engineering.

The Executive Secretary, NUC, Prof. Abdullahi Yusufu Ribadu congratulated the state, whilst describing it as an historic milestone that underlines the Ebonyi State Government’s commitment to educational development, technological innovation, and youth empowerment.

“This is not just about adding to the number of universities, but about creating a world-class institution that will drive research, innovation, and industry collaboration in the aerospace sector,” Ribadu said.

Ribadu said that the newly licensed university would focus on aeronautics and aerospace engineering, addressing Nigeria’s growing need for homegrown expertise in aviation and related technologies.

During the presentation, the ES hinted that with the coming on board of the new university, Nigeria will have 300  universities.

While stressing on the importance of maintaining academic integrity, curriculum standards, and collaboration with industry leaders, the ES also advised Ebonyi governor to ensure that the  new university aligns with the NUC Core Curriculum and Minimum Academic Standards (CCMAS), covering aerospace, automotive, mechatronics, and 26 related fields.

“We expect that it (the university) will adhere strictly to the guidelines set forth for country assurance, curriculum development, and the overall management of academic programmes.

“As we celebrate this achievement, I urge all stakeholders, government officials, university administrators, faculty members, and students to work collaboratively to ensure that the institution thrives and upholds the highest standards of academic integrity.

“It is our collective responsibility to ensure that this university does not only add to the number of institutions in the country, but stands out as a beacon of learning, character development, and societal transformations,” Ribadu said.

He, therefore, said that the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and National Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) would be notified duly.

Responding, the Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, said the new university will drive job creation, skill development, and national competitiveness in engineering and aviation.

Represented by Patricia Obila, the Deputy Governor, Nwifuru, said the university seeks to diversify its economy and build capacity in emerging technologies, setting the stage for innovation, inclusion, and international relevance.

“The certificate is given to us because we have been tested, we have gone through all the hurdles, and at the end of the day, we passed everything,” he said.