The African Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU), Abuja, and Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen the establishment of the Fauculty of Aeronautical and Space Engineering and to explore Online Distance Learning (ODL) academic collaboration between the two institutions.
The visit represents a follow-up to an earlier engagement between AAAU and ABU Zaria held in May 2026, with discussions focusing on areas of mutual academic and institutional interest.
In his presentation, the Ag. Vice-Chancellor of AAAU, Abuja, Dr. Mustapha Sheikh Abdullahi, Ph.D., said the engagement was primarily aimed at seeking the mentorship and expertise of ABU Zaria towards the establishment of the Faculty of Aeronautical and Space Engineering at AAAU.
He noted that the growing demand for specialised manpower in the aviation and aerospace sector had made the establishment of the Faculty increasingly important. He further stated that ABU Zaria was a strategic institution to partner with, given its long-standing experience in engineering education and the wealth of experienced academics within its Faculty of Engineering.
The Ag. Vice-Chancellor also disclosed that AAAU was exploring opportunities for collaboration in Online Distance Learning, an area in which ABU Zaria has considerable experience as one of the pioneering institutions in the country
He explained that the proposed collaboration would enable AAAU to accommodate potential international students and professionals within the aviation sector, particularly in view of the peculiar nature of the industry and the professional commitments of many of its students.
Responding, the Vice-Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Prof. Adamu Ahmad welcomed the AAAU delegation and congratulated the Ag. Vice-Chancellor for taking up the challenge of pioneering a specialised university dedicated to aviation and aerospace education.
Prof. Ahmad assured AAAU of the commitment of ABU Zaria, particularly its Faculty of Engineering, to supporting the University’s manpower development drive and the establishment of the Faculty of Aeronautical and Space Engineering.
The engagement culminated in the formal signing of the Memorandum of Understanding by representatives of both institutions, marking a significant step towards deepening academic cooperation, strengthening postgraduate education, and developing specialised manpower for the aviation and aerospace sector.
