The Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management (IBUAM) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Auxano Consulting Nigeria Limited, operating as Auxano Aviation, for the acquisition of 30 Jabiru J430 training aircraft to bolster its pilot-training capacity.

The agreement was formalised on Thursday at the Nigeria International Airshow held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja. Present at the signing were the Founder and CEO of IBUAM, Isaac Balami; the university’s Vice Chancellor, Air Vice Marshal (Rtd.) P. O. Jemitola; and the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.

Keyamo described the MoU as one of the landmark achievements of the airshow, noting that activities at the event made it “the best ever held on African soil.”

Under the terms of the partnership, Auxano Aviation — an authorised distributor of Jabiru Aircraft — will deliver the 30 units in structured phases: 10 aircraft per year over a three-year period. 

The company will also provide aircraft registration support, airworthiness documentation, initial spare parts, tools, handbooks, and familiarisation training for IBUAM instructors and maintenance engineers. Periodic technical oversight and access to Jabiru-approved parts and services are also included.

Speaking at the ceremony, IBUAM Vice Chancellor Prof. Jemitola said the acquisition represents a strategic investment in Nigeria’s aviation workforce. 

“This partnership marks a significant boost to our training capacity. With 30 modern training aircraft coming in phases, IBUAM is positioning itself as a leading centre for world-class pilot training in Africa,” he said, adding that the phased delivery plan enhances operational stability and sustainable expansion.

Balami, the university founder, noted that the structure of the aircraft supply will enable consistent access to reliable training platforms.

“Receiving 10 aircraft every year allows us to scale progressively and maintain high safety and operational standards,” he stated. 

He also expressed confidence in Auxano Aviation’s technical expertise, saying the company is “supplying expertise, not just aircraft.”

According to the MoU, the aircraft will be deployed exclusively for pilot training, aeronautical research, and flight-operations programmes. IBUAM is expected to maintain NCAA compliance, ensure qualified personnel handle the aircraft, and provide adequate facilities and operational infrastructure.

The agreement takes effect immediately. Two aircraft are expected to be delivered in December, while 10 more will arrive in 2026. 

The remaining units will be supplied in 2027, with some delivered fully assembled and others in components to support hands-on training and assembly exercises by IBUAM and 7Star Global Airlines.