The Federal College of Aviation Technology, Ilaro Remo, Ogun establishment bill has scaled a second reading in the Senate.

This followed the presentation of the lead debate on the bill’s general principles by its sponsor, Olugbenga Daniel (APC-Ogun), during a plenary.

The bill is titled ‘Federal College of Aviation Technology, Ilara Remo, Ogun (Establishment) Bill, 2023’.

Leading the debate, Mr Daniel said the bill, read for the first time on October 10, aimed at upgrading the Federal Technical College to a full-fledged Federal College of Aviation Technology.

He said the bill sought to make the college provide full-time courses in various specialisations in the aviation industry and to make provision for the general administration of the college.

“From the early days of aviation to the present, technology has played a crucial role in improving the safety, efficiency and capabilities of aircraft,” Mr Daniel said.

He also said that aviation technology in Nigeria has witnessed significant growth and development over the years.

The senator explained, “As the largest economy in Africa, Nigeria has made notable strides in the aviation sector both in terms of infrastructure and technological advancements, especially in the areas of airports and infrastructure, navigation and communication systems, and aircraft maintenance and repair.”

Mr Daniel, however, said while Nigeria had made significant progress in aviation technology, there were still challenges to address. He said challenges to be addressed included the need for continued investment in infrastructure development, enhancement of safety and security measures, and promotion of research and innovation in aviation technology.

“By addressing these challenges, Nigeria can further strengthen its aviation sector, boost economic growth, and promote connectivity both domestically and internationally,” noted Mr Daniel.

Supporting the motion, Titus Zam (APC-Benue) said, “I realise that in the whole of Nigeria, there is only one aviation technology school located in Zaria. And given the nature of the size of the country and the volume of air travel our economy requires, one single aviation school may not be able to serve the aviation needs of the country.

“So establishing another one in the south-west makes not only economic sense; it also makes both political and air service sense.”

Senate President Godswill Akpabio referred the bill to the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFund to report back in four weeks.

(NAN)