Niger State Governor Pledges N5 Billion to Revive Aviation Mini-Campus in Minna
In a significant move to bolster aviation and economic development, the Niger State Government has announced a N5 billion seed funding pledge for the construction of a mini-campus for the Nigerian College of Aviation, Zaria, at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport in Minna.
This landmark commitment, revealed by Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, aims to transform the airport into a regional hub for aviation and agriculture, while simultaneously curbing the high cost of training aviation professionals abroad.
A New Chapter for Aviation Training
The announcement was made during a visit by the management team of the Nigerian College of Aviation, led by its Rector, Dr. Danjuma Adamu, to the Minna International Airport.
The N5 billion pledge is specifically designated for the construction of essential infrastructure, including classrooms and hostels, which are vital for the full reactivation of the mini-campus. Governor Bago emphasized that this investment would make aviation-related education more accessible and affordable for Nigerians, reducing the need for costly overseas training.
He highlighted his administration’s vision to leverage the airport’s strategic location to create a dual-purpose hub for both aviation and agricultural logistics.
The initiative builds on a long-standing relationship between the Niger State government and the Nigerian College of Aviation. The college, established in 1964, has a history of running specialized programs at the Minna facility.
The reactivation of the campus is expected to strengthen this partnership, with Dr. Adamu noting that it will have a “significant impact” on personnel training and expertise, particularly in the burgeoning agro-aviation business.
This is a critical development for a state like Niger, which has a strong agricultural base and can benefit immensely from a trained workforce capable of supporting modern, technology-driven farming practices.
Backstory: Minna Airport’s Strategic Role
The pledge is the latest in a series of developments aimed at revitalizing the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport. In April 2025, the Federal Government officially launched flight operations at the reconstructed airport.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, had previously hailed the airport as a strategic alternative to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.
This designation positions Minna as a crucial contingency hub, with plans to deploy key agencies like Customs, Immigration, and NDLEA to ensure seamless operations.
Governor Bago’s political will in driving this project has been widely commended. The investment in the aviation mini-campus complements the broader vision for the airport, which is expected to enhance investment, create jobs, and significantly contribute to Niger State’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
As part of the development plan, the Governor also disclosed that existing structures, including the aviation fuel depot and a housing unit, would be demolished to make way for a more enhanced housing unit, aimed at addressing the state’s housing deficit.
The reactivation of the mini-campus and the broader airport development are poised to serve as a catalyst for economic growth.
By focusing on critical infrastructure and human capital development, the Niger State government is not only preparing the next generation of aviation professionals but also laying the groundwork for a more diversified and resilient economy.
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