Cross River Partners with Aviation Technology College to Boost Training and Tourism
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Cross River State has sealed a landmark partnership with the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria, aiming to transform the state into a hub for aviation training, youth empowerment, and tourism development.
This strategic collaboration follows the recent acquisition of two state-of-the-art CRJ-1000 aircraft by the administration of Governor Bassey Edet Otu, reflecting his government’s commitment to building local capacity in the aviation sector.
Training Opportunities for Cross Riverians
According to Akahi News, the agreement with NCAT will open doors for Cross River indigenes to receive professional training in areas such as:
- Aircraft Maintenance Engineering
- Piloting and Flight Operations
- Air Traffic Services
- Airport Emergency Response
- Technical Communication
Officials confirmed that the plan also includes the establishment of a South-South Zonal Training Centre in Calabar, which will make the state a major aviation education hub in the region.
Governor Otu’s Vision for Aviation
Speaking during a two-day working visit to NCAT, Ambassador Awatt Caleb, Special Adviser to the Governor on Local Content, highlighted Governor Otu’s long-term vision.
“The governor is determined not just to own aircraft but to raise a generation of Cross Riverians who can fly, maintain, and manage them at global standards,” he said, stressing the initiative’s role in job creation and economic renewal.
NCAT’s Commitment and International Opportunities
The Rector/CEO of NCAT, Dr Danjuma Isma’ila Adam, commended Governor Otu’s leadership and revealed that the college will support the state with technical expertise, pilot instructors, and training resources.
He confirmed that all NCAT programmes meet International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards, creating international career opportunities for trainees.
Dr Adam further hinted at plans to host Governor Otu in Zaria for the signing of a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to kickstart the training programme.
Tourism and Economic Impact
Observers believe this partnership will boost tourism by making Cross River a centre of aviation excellence, aligning with the recent Bilateral Air Service Agreement signed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which expands opportunities for advanced aviation training in Nigeria.
Ambassador Awatt concluded by thanking Governor Otu for his “unwavering support in positioning Cross River on the global aviation map.”
With this partnership, Cross River is on track to produce world-class aviation professionals while attracting investors and tourists to the state.
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