The Nigerian college of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria says plans are underway to address the huge infrastructure challenges comfronting the institution
The Rector of NCAT Dr. Danjuma Adamu Ismaila who made this known at the opening ceremony of the League of Airport and Aviation Correspondents LAAC Course in the College on Monday, disclosed that he is determined to reposition the college and to cover the gap and meet up as much as possible.
He noted that there is a huge gap in training infrastructure and there is a serious need to bridge those gaps as NCAT offers well over 200 different training programmes, yearly,
He stressed that critical infrastructures like accommodation are being addressed as a 150 rooms hostel is been built to address the issue of accommodation, as many of their trainees are lodged in hotels outside the college.
The Rector disclosed that NCAT has recently acquired a Boeing 737 flight simulator.
He said “You are aware that most aviation professionals or pilots every six months have to renew their licence, and this has to be done with full flight simulator training. They have to undergo that kind of training. Recently, we acquired that, and we will soon commence training on 737”
He spoke of plans by the management to expand courses offered in the college to reflect evolving trends and technology in the global air travel space.
He disclosed that NCAT is embarking on an aggressive carbon emission programme in line the directives rolled out by global aviation regulatory body: International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
He said “We are also adopting policy of decarbonization, we want to reduce dependance on energy, sustainable energy, one that is also emitting carbon to the enviroment or the atmosphere. The United Nations is championing decarbonization and so the college is also working towards adopting that policy in reducing carbon emissions.”
Chairman of LAAC, Idris Suleiman, in his remark charged NCAT management to continue to design programmes to meet the fast evolving trends for airlines, aviation agencies and other players in the value chain.
He said :” This gathering marks not just the start of another training session, but it is a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to excellence, capacity building, and responsible journalism within the aviation sector.
“The role of aviation correspondents, particularly in an evolving industry like ours, cannot be overstated. You are the bridge between the industry and the public—the narrators of our progress, our challenges, and our aspirations.
“This training course is therefore an opportunity to deepen understanding, strengthen professional ethics, and explore new trends in global aviation.
“The global aviation industry has in recent times, witnessed fluctuations and undeniable changes in the level of patronage, expectations and realignments. Airlines and regulatory authorities have had to review business decisions and policies. The toughness of the global economy was reflected in aircraft fleet renewals, cancellation of aircraft orders, changes in delivery dates by manufacturers and other effects.
“Back home in Nigeria, despite the challenges of excruciating airlines operating cost, operational and environmental constraints, more local airlines have received Air Operators’ Certificates within the last one year according to the NCAA while some other AOCs are being processed.
“The vision of investment in airports in the form of concessions is being piloted by the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development. These and other developments call for more training in the sector and they represent more opportunities for NCAT to harvest the ripe field of training adventures in the industry.
“As a nation, there exist opportunities for Nigeria to make progress in terms of its aviation development. LAAC therefore wishes to use this forum in the spirit of patriotism, to appeal to the various stakeholders and aviation authorities in the country to sustain their commitment towards the overall development of the sector.
“We live in a time when aviation is undergoing rapid transformation—driven by technology, sustainability goals, safety imperatives, and an increasingly interconnected world.
As such, it is critical that aviation journalists are equipped not only with factual accuracy but also with a nuanced appreciation of the technical and policy frameworks that govern this dynamic industry.
“Having undergone this training over and over, you can confirm that the difference in the knowledge and skills gathered from this training has to a large extent, reflected significantly in our coverage and reportage of the industry events continuously.
“We are confident that this years’ training will further boost professionalism in our reportage and practice as aviation media practitioners and journalists while further empowering us to play our role as the fourth estate of the realm.
‘I make bold to say that the entire aviation industry in Nigeria has benefited immensely from the relationship between LAAC and NCAT over the years.
It is on this basis that I wish to reassure you that LAAC will continue to support NCAT in pursuing its goals and objectives and ensuring that NCAT asserts its rightful position in the global aviation training market.
“Rector Sir, I will not end this speech without commending you, the entire management of NCAT for the unhidden improvements in infrastructure around the college. But there is still room for improvements though as we have only stepped into the second quarter of the year 2025.
“During our stay for this training, I appeal to our course lecturers, residents of NCAT and the Zaria community to accord us the usual hospitality that we have enjoyed over the years during the programme.
“I encourage my colleagues and all participants to approach the training with curiosity, commitment, and an open mind. Engage fully, ask questions, and make the most of this valuable learning experience.
