The Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria, has been recertified by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) for meeting international standards.
This milestone solidifies NCAT’s position as Nigeria’s premier aviation training institution.
Acting Rector, Mr. Joseph Shaka Imalighwe, described the recertification as a significant achievement and outlined his vision to modernize NCAT’s training programs.
“Our mission is to transition from traditional training methods to a digital model,” emphasizing ongoing partnerships with other training institutions and universities to enhance the curriculum.
Calls for Increased Federal Support
Mr. Imalighwe urged the federal government and the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development to allocate more resources to NCAT. He stressed that its status as an ICAO TrainAir Plus Training Centre of Excellence demands additional funding to sustain and expand its programs.
“The college requires significant investment to complete capital projects, including new lecture theatres, hostels, and meeting rooms,” he noted.
He also highlighted the need for 200 new computers for the ICT center, the acquisition of a fire tender for the recently established Airport Emergency Training (AET) School, and capacity-building programs for instructors.
Expanding Training Capabilities
NCAT has introduced the AET School to offer specialized courses, including initial firefighter training, live aircraft fire simulation, and airport emergency procedures. The Acting Rector disclosed plans to activate the long-dormant Boeing 737 flight simulator, with experts already assessing its restoration.
“The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, has sent experts to evaluate the simulator. We are working closely with NCAA to ensure it becomes operational soon,” he stated.
Challenges and Achievements
Despite progress, NCAT faces challenges such as inadequate facilities, high aviation fuel costs, a shortage of specialized instructors, and security concerns due to land encroachment.
The Acting Rector also lamented the college’s low budgetary allocation, which he said is insufficient for its growing needs.
“Our annual budget of approximately ₦3 billion is inadequate, given our ongoing projects. We need increased funding to realize our vision of making NCAT a global aviation training leader,” he stressed.
In a bid to address accommodation constraints, NCAT recently acquired Zaria Hotel and commenced renovation work. The college is also building a 150-room guesthouse to provide additional lodging for students and visitors.
Acknowledgments
Mr. Imalighwe praised the support from Minister Keyamo and NCAT staff. “The cooperation we have received has been instrumental in our progress.
ICAO and NCAA officials have also commended our improvements during their recertification visits,” he said.
He reaffirmed NCAT’s commitment to sustaining recent advancements in infrastructure, staff training, and partnerships. “We are dedicated to achieving our objectives and elevating NCAT to greater heights”.
NCAT currently contributes an average of 45% of Nigeria’s licensed aviation personnel, reinforcing its vital role in the nation’s aviation industry.
