A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Oguzorkanu Offia-Nwali, has described the establishment of the University of Aeronautics and Aerospace Engineering (UAAE), Ezza, as one of the most significant achievements of Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru’s administration in the education sector.
Offia-Nwali, in a statement, said the institution represents a major milestone under the governor’s People’s Charter of Needs agenda, reflecting a deliberate commitment to reposition Ebonyi State as a centre for academic excellence, scientific innovation, and technological advancement.
According to him, the official recognition of the university by the National Universities Commission (NUC) marked a historic moment for Ebonyi, making the state home to Nigeria’s first specialised University of Aeronautics and Aerospace Engineering.
He noted that the initiative demonstrates the government’s resolve to invest in knowledge, innovation and human capital development, while preparing young people for opportunities in the rapidly evolving global economy.
“The global economy is increasingly driven by artificial intelligence, robotics, aviation, aerospace engineering, cybersecurity, satellite technology, advanced manufacturing and digital innovation. Governor Nwifuru has gone beyond conventional educational policies by establishing an institution that will equip young people with the technical expertise, research capacity and entrepreneurial mindset required to compete globally,” he said.
Offia-Nwali explained that the university is designed not only to award degrees but also to serve as a centre of excellence for cutting-edge research, technological innovation, industrial collaboration and human capital development.
He said graduates of the institution would be equipped with the skills needed to excel as aerospace engineers, aviation professionals, software developers, data scientists, researchers and technology entrepreneurs capable of addressing real-world challenges.
Beyond its academic mandate, he stated that the university is expected to drive economic growth in Ezza and across Ebonyi State by attracting investments, creating employment opportunities, encouraging infrastructure development, promoting research partnerships and supporting innovation-driven enterprises.
He added that the influx of students, researchers, lecturers and investors would stimulate commercial activities and improve socio-economic development in host communities.
The APC chieftain further commended Governor Nwifuru for prioritising specialised higher education, describing the investment as evidence of a clear understanding that sustainable development depends on science, technology, research and innovation.
According to him, the administration is not only expanding access to tertiary education but also ensuring that Ebonyi youths acquire globally competitive skills needed to thrive in industries shaping the future.
Offia-Nwali described the University of Aeronautics and Aerospace Engineering as a legacy project that would strengthen Ebonyi’s reputation as a destination for educational excellence, technological innovation and international collaboration.
He maintained that the institution remains a shining example of purposeful governance and strategic planning, adding that investment in education remains the most reliable pathway to economic prosperity, industrial development, youth empowerment and sustainable growth.
He concluded that through the university, Ebonyi State is laying the foundation for a new generation of innovators, engineers, scientists and leaders who will contribute significantly to the development of Nigeria and Africa.
