There was widespread celebration across Nigeria, particularly in the Middle Belt and core northern regions, following President Bola Tinubu’s approval of Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management. The announcement was made during the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting on Monday at the State House.
The approval of the university, which had been delayed for four years, sparked joy nationwide, especially among young Nigerians who have benefited from the generosity of Comrade Isaac Balami. The university is among the 11 newly approved institutions.
Comrade Balami, a seasoned aviator and former President of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers, addressed the media shortly after the decision. He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for granting the university a license despite opposition. He remarked, “Who would have thought that in just two years of Mr. President’s administration, my university would be granted the license to operate?”
Balami, who owns one of Nigeria’s largest airline maintenance companies, 7star Global Hangar, reflected on the struggle to secure approval. He stated, “We have been on this for the past four years and as God could have it, we have finally hit the destination. Success can only be delayed. It will surely come. I thank His Excellency, President Bola Tinubu, for his fairness in the decisions he has made so far that have affected lives positively. This particular approval has brought succor to many families waiting patiently for the take-off of this university.”
He credited divine intervention and the President’s leadership for making the dream a reality, adding, “For four years, I was told it would not happen, but God used Mr. President. This portrays him as a leader who is ready to stand up for young people without godfathers but committed to nation-building.”
Balami assured that the university would be accessible to all Nigerians, not just the wealthy. “This is not my university. It’s our university. We will operate this together and eventually win together. God bless you all,” he said.
The streets of Biu, Borno State, were filled with jubilant young people celebrating the approval, while congratulatory messages poured in from across the country.
Balami acknowledged the role of the Minister of Education in supporting his vision, saying, “The propeller was when the Minister of Education saw through my vision. He personally affirmed his commitment toward the realization of this vision by saying it was his project. I thank him.”
He also expressed deep appreciation for his team, especially university professors who worked tirelessly to bring the vision to life. “I can’t appreciate my team enough, especially the school professors who worked tirelessly for years to push this vision to reality. Thank you. My 7star Hangar team has equally been wonderful in this effort. God bless you.”
He concluded with heartfelt words for his family, stating, “And to my lovely wife and children, your patience while I travel around the world and across the country for this vision has been amazing. This is the beginning of an epoch.”
The newly approved Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management aims to train the next generation of pilots, engineers, managers, and leaders.
