The Rector of the Nigeria College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Dr. Danjuma Ismaila, has reaffirmed the institution’s central role in building capacity within Nigeria’s aviation sector, as the 2025 League of Airports and Aviation Correspondents (LAAC) Training Course kicked off in Zaria.
Welcoming participants at the opening ceremony, Dr. Ismaila described the training as essential for equipping aviation journalists with the technical knowledge and industry context needed to effectively report on aviation matters.
“This programme is designed to empower participants with knowledge — to speak the language of aviation and understand the concepts that shape the industry. That is the core purpose of this training,” the Rector stated.
He expressed gratitude to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) for sponsoring the training, noting that NCAT has remained the backbone of aviation training in Nigeria, providing manpower development across all aviation agencies.
“Without NCAT, many of these agencies would be unable to function effectively. Every professional in this industry needs periodic training to renew licenses and stay updated with emerging trends. That’s the value we bring,” he said.
While highlighting the college’s achievements, Dr. Ismaila also acknowledged the limitations in infrastructure that have constrained NCAT’s capacity to expand its offerings. He revealed that construction of a new training complex is underway, part of a broader plan to scale up the institution’s capacity to meet growing industry demands.
“We’ve identified critical training gaps and are repositioning the college to fill them. Our infrastructure has not kept pace with demand, but we’re addressing that. A new building is under construction, and we’re acquiring additional training equipment to support airline operations and other sector needs,” he said.
The Rector emphasized that NCAT remains committed to its mandate of delivering world-class aviation training and is actively aligning its programmes with global best practices to meet the dynamic needs of the industry.
The event, held at NCAT’s Zaria campus, brought together journalists, aviation professionals, and stakeholders from across the country. The LAAC annual training course is aimed at enhancing the technical competence of aviation correspondents and strengthening their role in communicating developments in the sector.
The week-long programme features sessions on aviation policy, regulatory frameworks, safety standards, and emerging global trends — all intended to bridge the knowledge gap between the aviation industry and the public.
Mr. Idris Suleiman, Chairman of the League of Airports and Aviation Correspondents (LAAC), has emphasized the vital role of aviation journalism in shaping Nigeria’s aviation sector during the opening of the 2025 LAAC Annual Training Course at the Nigeria College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria.
Suleiman began his address by expressing sincere gratitude to Captain Chris Ona Najomo, Director General of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), for his strong support in bringing the training back to NCAT after two years at another institution. He also acknowledged the efforts of NCAT’s Rector, Dr. Danjuma Adamu Ismaila, and the management team, along with various aviation agencies, for their continuous backing of the programme.
“This training is more than just a routine exercise—it’s a recommitment to excellence, capacity building, and responsible aviation reporting,” Suleiman said.
He highlighted the critical role aviation correspondents play as the bridge between the aviation industry and the public, narrating its progress, challenges, and future aspirations. Suleiman stressed that, in today’s rapidly evolving global aviation environment, journalists must deepen their understanding of technical and policy matters to report accurately and meaningfully.
Addressing recent trends in the aviation industry, Suleiman noted the global challenges affecting fleet renewals, order cancellations, and shifting delivery schedules. He commended local progress, pointing out that more Nigerian airlines have received Air Operators’ Certificates (AOCs) over the past year despite high operating costs and regulatory hurdles.
“The Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development’s airport concession initiative offers new opportunities for growth, and NCAT is well placed to support these developments through expanded training,” he said.
Suleiman urged all stakeholders to sustain their commitment to advancing Nigeria’s aviation sector, emphasizing that aviation journalism must evolve alongside the industry’s transformation driven by technology, safety demands, and sustainability goals.
He concluded by reaffirming LAAC’s dedication to supporting NCAT and strengthening professional standards among aviation media practitioners, underscoring that well-informed and ethical reporting is essential for the sector’s continued growth and public trust.
The 2025 LAAC Training Course aims to enhance the knowledge and skills of aviation correspondents, equipping them to deliver more accurate, insightful, and impactful coverage of Nigeria’s dynamic aviation industry.
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