Balami, Al-Ansar Foundation Seek Stronger Private University Partnerships in Nigeria

Balami, Al-Ansar Foundation Seek Stronger Private University Partnerships in Nigeria

By Auwal Ahmad Umar

The founder of Africa’s first private aeronautics university, Isaac David Balami, has called for deeper collaboration among private educational institutions to strengthen higher education and innovation across Nigeria and the African continent.

Mr. Balami made the call during a courtesy visit to the president and founder of the Al-Ansar Foundation, Dr. Mohammed Kyari Dikwa, at the organization’s corporate headquarters in Maitama, Abuja.

The meeting brought together the two education advocates to discuss the future of private university education in Nigeria, with emphasis on sustainability, institutional partnerships, research development, innovation, and capacity building.

According to the participants, the discussions explored practical ways private institutions can complement government efforts in expanding access to quality tertiary education and producing graduates equipped to compete globally.

Speaking during the visit, Mr. Balami emphasised the need for stronger alliances among private universities, particularly in specialised fields such as aviation, engineering, science, and technology.

He noted that collaboration among institutions would help drive research, innovation, and technical advancement needed for Africa’s development.

The aeronautics university founder also praised the humanitarian and educational interventions of the Al-Ansar Foundation under the leadership of Mr Dikwa.

In his remarks, Mr Dikwa reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to educational development and human capital advancement through strategic partnerships.

He said private universities have an important role in addressing gaps in Nigeria’s education sector by promoting research excellence, entrepreneurship, and ethical leadership among young people.

Both parties also discussed future areas of cooperation, including academic exchange programs, professional development initiatives, technology transfers, entrepreneurial support, and international partnerships aimed at improving educational standards across Africa.

The visit concluded with the exchange of souvenirs and commemorative gifts, symbolising mutual respect and a shared commitment to future collaborations.

Observers say the engagement reflects growing efforts by private sector leaders to build stronger partnerships capable of transforming higher education and supporting long-term national development.