28th March , 2025
Taiwo Ogunniyi
Nineteen student pilots, including 10 Nigerian Army enrollees, have graduated from the International Aviation College (IAC), Ilorin, marking a historic milestone for the institution. At the ceremony held on Friday, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq emphasized the values of discipline, perseverance, and teamwork in achieving success.
Represented by the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Saadatu Modibbo-Kawu, the Governor commended the graduates for their dedication and assured them that their training had equipped them with the necessary skills to contribute meaningfully to society.
“You have undergone six months of rigorous training, learning perseverance, discipline, and teamwork. These values will be critical to your success as pilots,” he said.
The event highlighted the growing partnership between the International Aviation College and the Nigerian Army, with Governor AbdulRazaq expressing satisfaction with the collaboration.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, represented by Brigadier General Ezra Barkins, noted that the training aligns with efforts to operationalize the Nigerian Army Aviation, enhancing its operational capabilities.
“This initiative will reshape the battlefield for our operations, improving the Nigerian Army’s effectiveness. Graduates must embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, uphold discipline, and remain committed to excellence,” he said.
Rector of the College, Captain Yakubu Okahtai, described the Private Pilot License (PPL) training as a crucial step toward advanced aviation careers.
“This marks not just the completion of a rigorous program but the beginning of a new chapter for these gallant officers. Their training will significantly boost the Nigerian Army’s air mobility and reconnaissance capabilities,” he stated.
Among the graduates was Musa Aliu Damilola, a young aviation enthusiast who gained public attention three years ago for building mini planes and drones. Damilola expressed gratitude to Governor AbdulRazaq for sponsoring his education at the College.
“I never imagined I’d be here today, but thanks to the Governor’s support, I’m not only completing my PPL but also pursuing my Commercial Pilot License (CPL). He made my dream come true,” he said.
The ceremony was attended by top officials, including Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tertiary Education, Barrister Sabitiyu Grillo; College Registrar, Titilayo Sulaiman Wopa; and instructors.
On behalf of the graduating class, Lieutenant Smart Ebube Aghogho acknowledged the sacrifices made during training and thanked the College and the Nigerian Army for the opportunity.
“This journey required sleepless nights, intense study sessions, and rigorous examinations. We are grateful for the support that has shaped us into the aviators we are today,” he said.
Since March 2022, the College has graduated 62 pilots, further cementing its role as a key training institution for both civilian and military aviation in Nigeria.
