Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has hailed discipline and teamwork as key drivers of success as the International Aviation College (IAC), Ilorin, graduated 19 new pilots, including 10 from the Nigerian Army.
Speaking at the ceremony in Ilorin, AbdulRazaq, represented by Commissioner for Tertiary Education Hajia Saadatu Modibbo-Kawu, praised the graduates for their resilience and commitment. He emphasized that their journey extends beyond earning certificates, as they have also acquired the skills and values needed to make meaningful contributions to society.
“The state government is extremely excited to witness this very important achievement in the lives of these students. We are happy with the partnership between the College and the Nigerian Army,” he said.
The graduation marks a significant step in strengthening Nigeria’s aviation capacity, particularly in military operations. The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Olufemi Oluyede, represented by Brig. Gen. Ezra Barkins, Brigade Commander of the 22 Armoured Brigade, Sobi, Ilorin, underscored the strategic importance of the training.
“This will no doubt reshape the battle space for all our operations, thereby enhancing operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Army,” Barkins stated.
He urged the graduates to uphold excellence and resilience in their careers. “As you are graduating today, embrace every challenge as an opportunity for growth, and remember that with perseverance and resilience, you will go beyond the sky. I urge you to exhibit the core values of which the Nigerian Army is known for. You must remain focused always, and together, you will overcome obstacles, celebrate triumphs, and build a legacy that will endure throughout the annals of the Nigerian Army.”
The Rector of IAC, Captain Yakubu Okahtai, described the Private Pilot License (PPL) program as a gateway to advanced aviation training. He highlighted its role in enhancing the Nigerian Army’s air mobility and reconnaissance capabilities.
“This occasion marks not just the successful completion of a rigorous training exercise but also the beginning of a new chapter in the careers of these gallant officers who have chosen to serve their nation in the skies,” Okahtai said, while commending the Kwara State government for its unwavering support in the program’s success.
With this milestone, Kwara State continues to position itself as a hub for aviation excellence, fostering both military and civilian air capabilities in Nigeria.
