….Free Flight School for 160 Nigerians
The Isaac Balami Foundation (IBF) has officially launched its tuition-free aviation scholarship program, a key component of its Youth Empowerment Scheme (iYES).
The program, which began on February 3, 2025, will provide 160 qualified Nigerian youths with the opportunity to pursue careers in the aviation industry.
The launch commenced with orientation activities at Aviatrix Hub, followed by a visit to 7star Global Hangar, a major funding partner and the vision of IBF President, Engr. Isaac Balami.
Scholars also toured the proposed site of the Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management (IBUAM) and met with program stakeholders.
Engr. Balami encouraged the beneficiaries to dedicate themselves to their studies, stating, “My vision is to help you accomplish in the next 5 years what took some of us 15 to 20 years to achieve, if you are determined.”
Representatives from partnering Approved Training Organizations (ATOs), Aviatrix Hub and Leadstream Aviation, emphasized the importance of preparation and safety.
Mrs. Victoria Adegbe, Accountable Manager at Aviatrix Hub said, “We are ready and set to train you”.
While Engr. Roland Ahmed, Accountable Manager at Leadstream Aviation, stressed the critical role of safety in aviation saying, “You must study and give your best; there is no room for failure.”
IBF Executive Director, Mrs. Obioma Madu Udealor, welcomed the scholars and acknowledged the contributions of the Foundation’s partners.
Other speakers included Dr. Nneka Ebru Ekpe, Group COO at 7star Global Hangar, and Dr. Joshua Abbey, Project Director at 7star Global Hangar.
Beneficiaries expressed profound gratitude, sharing stories of overcoming obstacles to pursue their aviation dreams.
One scholar recounted traveling from Cross River State, noting it was their first time seeing, let alone entering, an aircraft and another, from Borno State, shared how her late father encouraged her aviation aspirations despite discouragement from others.
The scholarship program, initially announced by Isaac Balami in celebration of his 40th birthday, underscores the Foundation’s commitment to fostering talent and opportunity within the Nigerian aviation sector.
The IBF expressed its appreciation to supporting organizations, including 7star Global Hangar, 7star Global Airline, Aviatrix Hub, Leadstream Aviation, and the Nigeria International Airshow, for their vital contributions to the initiative.
