The federal government has said it would convert Zaria Hotels in Kaduna State into classrooms and hostels for the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria.
News About Nigeria reports that Keyamo, the Aviation Minister, spoke with journalists in Zaria on Wednesday.
The Aviation Minister said that the Zaria Hotels had been acquired as an annexure to the NCAT to widen its growth potential.
He spoke shortly after a familiarisation tour of the institution.
Keyamo said that NCAT remained the best institution for the aviation industry in Nigeria and West Africa.
“The landmass we have here is enough for expansion, so the potential for the college, in terms of expansion, is great,” he said.
“But, in spite of that, we have also acquired Zaria Hotels as an annexure to the college. We want to add to the facilities on ground.”
The minister assured the management of the college that the government would keep working on areas that needed improvement.
On reports that the college’s fire simulator and other facilities will be relocated elsewhere, the minister said there was no such plan.
“There is nothing like that; if we do it, where are we going to take it? NCAT is the training hub for the aviation industry; the rumour is being spread by mischief makers.”
In his remarks, the acting rector of NCAT, Mr. Joseph Imalighwe, commended the minister for the visit and support for the college.
“This visit is a testament to the government’s recognition of the critical role NCAT plays in the aviation sector.
“We are encouraged by the Minister’s support and look forward to further advancements in our training capabilities,” said Mr. Imalighwe.