LAGOS – In a bid to build capacity and empower young Nigerians in the aviation sector, the Isaac Balami Foundation has announced the official launch of its tuition-free aviation scholarship programme for 160 qualified youths to pursue careers in the aviation industry.

The President of the Foundation, Mr Isaac Balami disclosed this during the orientation activities at Aviatrix Hub and excursion to 7star Global Hanger on Tuesday in Lagos.

The programme, he said, was part of the Isaac Balami Foundation Youth Empowerment Scheme (iYES), which began on February 3, 2025.

On behalf of the Foundation, Balami appreciated all individuals and organisations supporting the scholarship initiative, including 7star Global Hangar, 7star Global Airline, Aviatrix Hub (ATO), Leadstream Aviation (ATO), and Nigeria International Airshow.

According to him, their invaluable contributions are instrumental in shaping the future of aspiring aviation professionals and enhancing the landscape of the aviation industry in Nigeria.

Speaking to the participants, Balami said: “What took some of us 15 to 20 years to achieve, my vision is to help you accomplish in the next five years, if you are determined.”

The Accountable Managers from the partnering Approved Training Organisations (ATOs), Aviatrix Hub and Leadstream Aviation, Mrs Victoria Adegbe and Mr Roland Ahmed, respectively, emphasised the importance of preparation for the upcoming training.

Adegbe said: “We are ready and set to train you. You must study and give your best; there is no room for failure. We are here to prepare you for the future of the aviation industry.”

On his part, Ahmed highlighted the critical nature of safety in aviation, reminding students that every decision matters.

“The speed of an aircraft is nearly as swift as the speed of light. It’s crucial that you take this opportunity seriously and strive for excellence.”

On her part, Mrs Obioma Udealor, the Executive Director of the Foundation, while welcoming the beneficiaries, urged them to recognise the contributions of the Foundation and its partners.

“You are already experiencing more than you might have expected. We are providing you with numerous resources and experiences to help you excel in this industry. Please make our efforts count.”

Dr Nneka Ekpe, the Group Chief Operating Officer at 7star Global Hangar, and Dr Joshua Abbey, Project Director at 7star Global Hangar both capplauded the initiative and urged the beneficiaries to seize the opportunity to impact sector at large positively.

Recalls that the programme was originally announced by the foundation’s president to commemorate his 40th birthday on August 25, 2024.

The programme was to reflect the foundation’s commitment to nurturing talent and creating opportunities for those passionate about aviation.

Participants visited the proposed campus of the Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management (IBUAM), where they interacted with various partners and stakeholders involved in the scholarship programme.