Isaac Balami: APC Chieftain Who Built Africa’s First Private Aeronautics University Clocks at 41
- Isaac Balami, aviation entrepreneur and philanthropist, is celebrated at 41 for his journey from union leader to nation builder
- He founded Africa’s first private aeronautics university, 7 Star Global Hangar, and 7 Star Global Airline, shaping aviation education and industry growth
- Through his foundation, Balami supports over 500 orphans and underprivileged individuals, cementing his legacy of service and humanitarian impact
Nigerian aviation entrepreneur and philanthropist, Engr. Isaac David Balami, has been celebrated on the occasion of his 41st birthday, with tributes pouring in to honour his remarkable journey from union leader to nation builder.
Fondly called “Presido” by colleagues during his tenure as President of the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE), Balami has been recognised for his contributions to the aviation sector and his humanitarian initiatives.
Source: UGC
Tributes highlight vision and impact
Chief Executive Officer of the Centre for Strategic Enterprise Development (CSED), Izu Divine Freeman, praised Balami as “a dreamer and relentless doer who consistently turns vision into tangible impact.”
Freeman, who has worked closely with him for over a decade, also recalled their partnership on the Nigeria Rebirth Project, which produced the Nigerian Dream Image still displayed in Aso Rock. “He is not just a brother and adviser but a man who values people above all. At 41, he is already building a legacy that inspires generations,” he said.
From union leader to business trailblazer
Balami began his career as Business Manager at Aero Contractors before rising to prominence in union leadership, where he repositioned NAAPE as a respected voice within the industry.
He later ventured into entrepreneurship, founding the 7 Star Global Hangar, the largest African-owned aircraft maintenance hub in West and Central Africa, alongside 7 Star Global Airline, a premium charter service currently planning a transition into commercial operations, This Day reported.
Building Africa’s first private aeronautics university
Among his most ambitious projects is the Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management (IBUAM), Africa’s first privately-owned specialised aeronautics university.
The institution was established to bridge critical gaps in aviation education and manpower development, a vision Balami has long championed.
Humanitarian legacy through foundation
Source: Facebook
Beyond aviation, Balami’s humanitarian work has drawn admiration. Through the Isaac Balami Foundation (IBF), he has supported more than 500 orphans and underprivileged individuals, providing housing, education, and empowerment opportunities.
As he marks his 41st year, admirers describe Balami’s story as a powerful testament to the role of vision, courage, and determination in transforming industries and impacting lives.
Tinubu approves license for Isaac Balami varsity of Aeronautics
Previously, Legit.ng reported President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the establishment of Nigeria's first private aviation university, the Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management (IBUAM), following a decision by the Federal Executive Council, Vanguard reported.
The approval was announced by Sunday Dare, special adviser to President Tinubu on media and public communications, after the council meeting on Monday, March 3.
Engr. Isaac Balami, the founder of IBUAM and former national president of the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers (NAAPE), confirmed the news.
Source: Legit.ng
