The Isaac Balami Foundation announced the official launch of its tuition-free aviation scholarship programs.
The program is part of the Isaac Balami Foundation Youth Empowerment Scheme (iYES), which began on February 3, 2025.
LEADERSHIP reports that the initiative was designed to empower 160 qualified Nigerian youths eager to pursue careers in the aviation industry.
The program commenced with orientation activities at Aviatrix Hub, followed by an excursion to 7star Global Hangar, a key funding partner and the vision of the foundation’s president, Isaac Balami.
Participants also 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 program.
Throughout the event, speakers encouraged the beneficiaries to seize this scholarship opportunity and focus on their studies to make a positive impact in the aviation sector.
Engr. Isaac Balami addressed the participants, stating, “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 two partnering approved training organisations (ATOs), Aviatrix Hub and Leadstream Aviation, Victoria Adegbe and Roland Ahmed, respectively, emphasised the importance of preparation for the upcoming training.
Adegbe remarked, “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.”
Roland 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.”
The executive director of the foundation, Obioma Madu Udealor, welcomed the beneficiaries and urged them to recognise the contributions of the Foundation and its partners.
“Welcome to the program! 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.”
Other speakers included Dr. Nneka Ebru Ekpe, Group COO at 7star Global Hangar, and Dr. Joshua Abbey, Project Director at 7star Global Hangar.
The beneficiaries expressed their heartfelt gratitude, sharing their struggles and aspirations. One participant shared, “I had given up on this dream before I found this opportunity and applied. I received the offer just a day before my birthday.” Another added, “I traveled from my village in Cross River State for this training. Today was the first time I’ve ever been close to an aircraft and even entered one.”
A student from Borno State recounted how she was once told she had no future ambition due to her lofty dreams of becoming an aviator, but her late father encouraged her. “I was ready to give up on my dreams, but my father, on his sickbed, urged me not to lose hope. He said that help would come.” They all pledged to give their best and honor the Foundation’s mission.
Originally announced by Isaac Balami to commemorate his 40th birthday on August 25, 2024, this scholarship program reflects the Foundation’s commitment to nurturing talent and creating opportunities for those passionate about aviation.
The Isaac Balami Foundation sincerely appreciates all individuals and organizations supporting this scholarship initiative, including 7star Global Hangar, 7star Global Airline, Aviatrix Hub (ATO), Leadstream Aviation (ATO), and Nigeria International Airshow. Their invaluable contributions are instrumental in shaping the future of aspiring aviation professionals and enhancing the landscape of the aviation industry in Nigeria.
