- 19 pilots, including 10 from Nigerian Army, complete rigorous training at Ilorin aviation college
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has underscored the importance of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance in achieving success as the International Aviation College, Ilorin, graduated 19 student pilots on Friday, marking the largest number in the institution’s history.
Among the graduates were 10 officers from the Nigerian Army, a milestone in the ongoing efforts to strengthen military aviation.
Commitment to Excellence in Aviation Training
Speaking at the event in Ilorin, Governor AbdulRazaq, represented by Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Sa’adatu Modibbo-Kawu, charged the graduates to uphold the core values of discipline and resilience as they transition into professional aviation careers.
“You have undergone six months of rigorous training, learning not just how to fly but also the essential values of perseverance, discipline, and teamwork. These qualities will define your future success,” he said.
The Governor commended the partnership between the college and the Nigerian Army, highlighting its role in expanding Nigeria’s aviation capabilities.
Nigerian Army Eyes Stronger Air Operations
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, represented by Brig. Gen. Ezra Barkins, Commander of the 22 Armoured Brigade, described the training as a major step in operationalizing Nigerian Army Aviation.
“This will reshape the battlefield dynamics of our operations and significantly enhance the effectiveness of the Nigerian Army,” Barkins said.
He urged the graduates to remain resilient and focused, reminding them that their training was not just about flying but about national defense and service.
Building the Future of Military and Civil Aviation
The Rector of the International Aviation College, Ilorin, Captain Yakubu Okahtai, emphasized that the Private Pilot License (PPL) training was just the first step toward equipping military and civilian pilots with the skills needed for advanced aviation roles.
“This marks not just the completion of a rigorous training process but the beginning of a new chapter for these pilots. The discipline, precision, and responsibility instilled in them will be vital in their careers,” Okahtai said.
He praised the Kwara State Government for its support and highlighted the successful collaboration between the Nigerian Army and the aviation college.
“Since the current administration took over in March 2022, the college has graduated 62 pilots, demonstrating the success of this partnership,” he added.
Dreams Take Flight: Star Civilian Graduate Honored
Among the graduating pilots was Musa Aliu Damilola, a young aviation enthusiast who gained public attention three years ago for building mini planes and drones. Damilola, who received state sponsorship, expressed gratitude to Governor AbdulRazaq for making his dream a reality.
“I never expected to be here today, but thanks to the Governor’s support, I have completed my PPL and am now pursuing a Commercial Pilot License (CPL). This is a dream come true,” he said.
Looking Ahead
Speaking on behalf of the graduating pilots, Lieutenant Smart Ebube Aghogho reflected on the intense training, sleepless nights, and challenges they overcame to earn their wings.
“We faced progress checks, NCAA exams, cross-country navigation, and endless hours of studying, but today, we celebrate our success. We are ready to take on the skies,” he said.
The graduation ceremony was attended by government officials, military personnel, aviation experts, and instructors, all of whom reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s aviation and defense sectors.
With this latest batch of military and civilian pilots, the International Aviation College, Ilorin, continues to solidify its reputation as a leading institution in pilot training, helping shape the future of Nigeria’s air mobility and security operations.
