By Abdulrasheed Ahmed
Establishment and Legacy
The Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria, formerly known as the Civil Aviation Training Centre (CATC), is a Federal Government project assisted by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and was established in 1964. Today, it remains Nigeria’s foremost aviation training institution and one of Africa’s leading centres of excellence in aviation education, training, and capacity development.
Human Capacity Development
For over six decades, NCAT has consistently produced highly skilled aviation professionals who contribute to safe, efficient, and sustainable air transportation in Nigeria, across Africa, and around the world.
A significant proportion of Nigeria’s aviation workforce received their professional training at NCAT. The College has trained the majority of the nation’s pilots, aircraft maintenance engineers, air traffic controllers, as well as numerous aviation professionals across various specialties, making it the backbone of human capacity development for Nigeria’s aviation industry.
Vision
To maintain the prestigious position of the foremost aviation training institution in Africa and be among the best in the world.
Mission
To consistently provide the aviation industry with professionals and other personnel through training and related services for safe air transportation in accordance with international standards.
Mandate of NCAT
NCAT is mandated to provide training in flight operations, airport operations, aviation management, aviation technical disciplines, as well as research and development in aviation technology and safety systems.
Schools and Training Divisions
NCAT operates six specialised schools, each offering professional and academic training programmes in various aviation disciplines:
1. Flying School: Provides training for pilots, cabin crew, and other flight operations personnel.
2. Aircraft Maintenance Engineering School: Offers training in aircraft maintenance engineering and related technical disciplines.
3. Aeronautical Telecommunications Engineering School: Provides training in aviation communication, navigation, surveillance, and related systems.
4. Air Traffic Services and Communication School: Trains air traffic controllers and other air navigation services personnel.
5. Aviation Management School: Offers training in aviation management, administration, safety, and security.
6. Aerodrome Safety Engineering School: Provides training in airport rescue, firefighting, and aerodrome safety operations.
Academic and Professional Programmes
Collectively, these schools offer no fewer than 209 academic and professional programmes certified by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the Aviation Accreditation Board International (AABI), the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), among other recognised professional bodies.
Instructional Systems Design Unit
NCAT also operates an Instructional Systems Design Unit (ISDU), which delivers ICAO-certified training programmes aligned with global aviation standards and develops courses.
Qualifications Awarded
The College awards National Diploma (ND), Pre-Higher National Diploma (Pre-HND), Higher National Diploma (HND), and Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) qualifications in selected aviation disciplines.
ICAO Platinum Status
With the consistent attainment of ICAO Platinum Status for six consecutive terms, NCAT continues to stand as a symbol of excellence, innovation, and global relevance in aviation training.
Six Decades of Aviation Development
For more than 60 years, NCAT has remained a pillar of aviation development in Africa, shaping generations of aviation professionals who continue to serve the global aviation industry with distinction.
Commitment to Excellence and Innovation
Through its unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and international best practices, the College continues to inspire confidence and produce professionals who drive the growth, safety, and sustainability of the aviation sector worldwide.
Advancing Global Aviation Standards
As Nigeria’s premier aviation training institution, NCAT remains steadfast in its commitment to developing world-class aviation professionals and advancing aviation safety, innovation, and excellence in line with global standards.
Video credit: Ms. Adachi Uchendu. Watch the full video via this YouTube link: http://youtu.be/2nNSLG2Ezuw
*Abdulrasheed Ahmed is a former Corps Member of the Information and Public Relations Unit, Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria.