The Senate has taken a step towards establishing a Federal College of Aviation Technology in Ilara Remo, Ogun State, by passing a bill for the upgrade of the existing Federal Technical College to a full-fledged aviation institution.
The bill, sponsored by Senator Olugbenga Daniel (APC-Ogun), was read for the second time on Wednesday after he presented the lead debate on its general principles.
He said the bill aimed to provide full-time courses in various specializations in the aviation industry and to make provision for the general administration of the college.
Senator Daniel said that aviation technology was crucial for improving the safety, efficiency and capabilities of aircraft and that Nigeria had made notable strides in the aviation sector both in terms of infrastructure and technological advancements.
He added that the bill would address the challenges of continued investment in infrastructure development, enhancement of safety and security measures, and promotion of research and innovation in aviation technology.
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He said that by addressing these challenges, Nigeria could further strengthen its aviation sector, boost economic growth, and promote connectivity both domestically and internationally.
The bill was supported by Senator Titus Zam (APC-Benue), who said that Nigeria needed more than one aviation school to meet the aviation needs of the country, given its size and volume of air travel.
He said that establishing another aviation college in the southwest would make economic, political and air service sense.
The bill was referred to the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFund by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, who directed the committee to report back in four weeks.