
By Mahmoud
Young Man’s Dream Stalled by Funding Abdullahi Abubakar, a young Nigerian from Birnin Kebbi Local Government Area of Kebbi State, has seen his dream of becoming a pilot put on hold due to financial difficulties.
Abdullahi gained admission to the International Aviation College (IAC), Ilorin, in 2018, where he reportedly received about ₦2 million in sponsorship from the Kebbi State Government. The support enabled him to complete a year of training and obtain his Private Pilot Licence (PPL).
He also reportedly passed his ground-school examinations and relevant Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) examinations.
However, the sponsorship ended when he reached the circuit and landing stage of his flight training, leaving him in need of about ₦1.8 million to continue.
According to his account, Abdullahi has sought assistance from the Kebbi State Scholarship Board since 2019 but has yet to secure the funds needed to complete his training.
Unable to continue his aviation programme, he returned home and began riding a commercial motorcycle to earn a living.
His journey from preparing for the cockpit to riding an Okada highlights how financial constraints can derail the ambitions of young Nigerians.
He is now appealing for support from government authorities, philanthropists and well-meaning individuals to help him complete his training and pursue his dream of becoming a pilot.