A flurry of debate has erupted over the federal government’s plan to decentralise aviation training in Nigeria by expanding on facilities beyond the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria.
The proposal is aimed at establishing additional training centres in different parts of the country to improve access to aviation education and support regional development.
Supporters of the plan said it will give more Nigerians the opportunity to study aviation without having to travel long distances. They also believe it will help develop other regions and reduce pressure on the existing facility in Zaria.
Some government officials have argued that decentralising training will strengthen the aviation sector by producing more skilled professionals across the country.
However, the proposal has faced criticism from different aviation experts and industry stakeholders who fear it could weaken the existing system.
Critics argue that NCAT, Zaria, has built a strong reputation over the years as a centre of excellence, and splitting its operations across different locations may affect the quality of training.
They also noted that aviation training requires a coordinated system where different departments work closely together, it was also mentioned that decentralisation could disrupt this structure.
Some stakeholders further expressed concern about funding, questioning whether the government can effectively maintain multiple training centres without stretching resources thinly.
Despite these concerns, the federal government has continued to defend the plan, stating that efforts are being made to ensure standards are maintained across all proposed centres.
The development has drawn mixed reactions within the aviation sector, with calls for careful planning and proper consultation before full implementation.
The debate is expected to continue as stakeholders assess the long-term impact of the policy on aviation training and safety in Nigeria.
