Nigeria Air Force and LASU Renew Partnership to Enhance Research and Development

In a significant move to strengthen collaborative efforts, the Nigeria Air Force (NAF) has renewed its partnership with Lagos State University (LASU) in areas of mutual interest, including staff exchange, joint projects, and research initiatives. This renewal, formalized on October 22, 2024, marks a continuation of the collaboration that began in 2013, with previous renewals in 2018.

During a productive meeting at the office of the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, LASU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, mni, NPOM, alongside the leadership of the Faculty of Engineering, advocated for the renewal of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The Vice-Chancellor proposed the establishment of a Joint Research Team comprising LASU’s Research Team and the NAF’s Research and Development Team. This initiative aims to address pressing aircraft operational issues and other significant challenges facing the nation.

Prof. Olatunji-Bello also requested the placement of Aerospace Engineering students for their Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) within NAF’s various formations across Nigeria. Additionally, she sought the donation of a decommissioned ABT 18 Aircraft for practical training purposes.

Air Marshal Abubakar responded positively to all requests, approving the proposals to usher in a new era of collaboration between LASU and NAF. He emphasized the Air Force’s commitment to executing the agreements promptly, further enhancing LASU’s capacity to contribute to national development.

This renewed partnership is expected to enrich the teaching and learning experience for LASU staff and students while reinforcing the university's role in addressing real-life problems through collaborative research efforts. The meeting concluded with the exchange of gifts and group photographs, highlighting the strengthened ties between the two institutions. Joining the Vice-Chancellor at the meeting were Prof. Elkanah Oyetunji, Head of Epe Campus; Prof. Nurudeen Raji, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering; and Mrs. Fatimah Ogunniyi, Personal Assistant to the Vice-Chancellor.