On Friday, The International Aviation College located in Ilorin, Kwara State, celebrated the graduation of 19 student pilots, with 10 coming from the Nigerian Army. This marks the largest number of graduates since the inception of the institution’s pilot training program.

At the commencement ceremony in Ilorin, located in Kwara State, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq emphasized the importance of continuous determination, discipline, and collaboration among pilots.

“It has been six months of intense training that brought you this far. During this time, you’ve acquired many skills such as persistence, self-discipline, and teamwork. Maintaining these will be crucial for your success,” AbdulRazaq stated.

The governor, speaking through the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Sa’adatu Modibbo-Kawu, stated that the graduates possess more than just degrees; they have acquired knowledge, skills, and values essential for making significant contributions to society.

“The state government is highly enthusiastic about observing this significant milestone in the students’ lives. We are pleased with the collaboration between the college and the Nigerian Army,” the governor mentioned additionally.

AbdulRazaq praised the administration, employees, and pupils of the institution for their continuous hard work in maintaining the school.

The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, conveyed this message via the Brigade Commander of the 22 Armored Brigade at Nigerian Army Sobi, Brigadier General Ezra Barkins. He stated that the purpose of the training is to ensure full operability of the Nigerian Army Aviation.

This will undoubtedly redefine the operating environment for all our missions, thus improving the operational efficiency of the Nigerian Army.

As you graduate today, welcome each challenge as a chance for development, and keep in mind that through persistence and fortitude, you will surpass all limits. I encourage you to demonstrate the fundamental principles that define the Nigerian Army.

“You must consistently stay focused, and as a team, you will conquer challenges, rejoice in victories, and establish a legacy that will last through the ages of the Nigerian Army,” he emphasized.

Present at the event were the Permanent Secretary from the Ministry of Tertiary Education, Barrister Sabitiyu Grillo; the Registrar of the College, Titilayo Wopa; along with both ground and flight instructors.

The head of International Aviation College Ilorin, Captain Yakubu Okahtai, stated that obtaining a Private Pilot License (PPL) acts as an entry point for further aviation education. This allows individuals to move towards operational positions which can greatly improve the Nigerian Army’s abilities in aerial movement and surveillance.

This event signifies both the successful conclusion of an intensive training program and the start of a new phase in the professional lives of these distinguished officers who have decided to dedicate themselves to serving their country from the air.

“The training for the Private Pilot License (PPL) taken by our aspiring pilots forms a vital cornerstone in their path to mastering both civilian and military aviation. Beyond being merely an initiation into flight, this program cultivates discipline, accuracy, and a strong sense of duty—attributes indispensable for excelling in military aviation,” he stated.

Okahtai expressed gratitude towards the Kwara State Government for their significant contribution to the successful implementation of the training program.

“The alliance between the Nigerian Army and the Kwara State Government underscores the significance of cooperation between military organizations and civilian leadership. This joint effort has not only played a key role in the success of this operation but has also established a base for upcoming training programs designed to continually develop proficient military aviators,” stated the Rector.

Okahtai revealed that ever since the new administration began in March 2022, the college has seen the graduation of 62 students.

On behalf of the newly minted pilots, Lieutenant Smart Ebube Aghogho expressed gratitude to the administration and staff of the college for their guidance and unwavering support, which helped them thrive in this ever-evolving domain. He also acknowledged the Nigerian Army for providing them with the chance to receive instruction at the prestigious aviation training facility in Nigeria.

Today signifies the peak of our efforts over several months, marked by intense labor, steadfast determination, unyielding commitment, and extensive preparation. Our gratitude goes to God for providing us with fortitude and guiding us thus far.

“We have surmounted numerous obstacles including sleepless study sessions, weekend lectures, travel-filled Saturdays, progress reviews, practice tests, NCAA exams, and navigating across different regions,” he stated.

The prominent civilian graduate of the day, Musa Aliu Damilola, gained significant attention three years ago when he constructed miniature airplanes and drones, which he subsequently showcased at the Kwara State Government House.

Damilola was grateful to AbdulRazaq for backing his aspiration to become a pilot through state-funded education at the International Aviation College Ilorin.

I’m grateful to His Excellency Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his backing of my professional journey. It’s surreal to think that I’ve reached this point with my PPL graduation, something I hadn’t anticipated. Additionally, he assisted me in obtaining my Commercial Pilot License (CPL), turning my aspirations into reality. This is an opportunity for me to express my gratitude toward him once more.

“From an early age, I dreamed of becoming a pilot, yet received little backing. Initially, I began by constructing miniature planes. Fortunately, I encountered a former Special Assistant to the Governor named Cute Abiola, who connected me with His Excellency. The Governor then provided sponsorship for me to attend the International Aviation College in Ilorin. Currently, I’m working towards obtaining my CPL following completion of my PPL,” he stated.