PRESS STATEMENT

Made-in-Nigeria Helicopter Underway

…As Ministry of Aviation  Begins Assessment Process.

The dream of Mr. President to launch Made-in- Nigeria Helicopter before the end of his tenure is gradually coming to fulfillment as the project has entered an assessment stage by the Aviation authorities. 

The officers from the Ministry  of Aviation and its agencies visited NASENI Solar Energy Limited  where the NASENI Helicopter Hanger and Helipad are housed today in Abuja for on-site  assessment and evaluation of NASENI  Helicopter. 

In his opening remarks the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive of NASENI Engr. Prof. Maiwalima Mohammad Sani Haruna who was represented by the Managing Director NASENI Solar Energy Limited Engr. Dr. Mahmoud Jaffaru said that the Agency was ready to accept any suggestions  and support from the Aviation ministry that would lead to the successful completion of the project within the time frame given to the Agency by Mr. President. 

He noted that it was the desire of the Agency to manufacture made-in- Nigeria Helicopter that is of international standards and help in boosting the nation’s economy. 

According to him, NASENI has massive land mass that would accommodate all the operational activities.  ” We have expertise for developing the helicopter and we do things according to laid-down rules. We are ready to work with you to achieve this project “.

In his presentation the Deputy Director Engineering Infrastructure Engr. Emmanuel Ajani said that NASENI  entered into collaboration with Dynali Helicopter Company, Thins Belgium to develop made in Nigeria Helicopter and has trained its engineers for the take off of the project in Nigeria. 

According to him, Mr. President approved the project on January  26, 2021 and directed NASENI to complete the production of made-in- Nigeria Helicopter before the end of his tenure.

“NASENI Engineers and technicians have been trained on helicopter  assembly, maintenance  and repair at Dynali. More engineers will be sent for training including pilots. We are also taking the issue of licencing serious.  We are aware that the permit for non-commercial flight must be done before we continue with the process of manufacturing.  Our plan is to get the permit  before we start.  That is why you are here today for the assessment and evaluation of the hanger and Helipad which have arrived  and we pray for your timely consideration and approval of the process.

He however noted that all the necessary steps to achieve the project has been taken and therefore ” We look forward to the Ministry of Aviation and all its Agencies  to support NASENI in achieving this project”.

Responding, the team leader from the Aviation ministry and  its agencies Captain Akali represented  by the General  Manager Aeronautical Services, Nigeria Meteorological  Agency  (NiMet) Asaniyan Taiwo said the team was in NASENI for assessment, inspection and to pick all the information needed and go back to the ministry for submission. 

While applauding NASENI for the laudable project he said its completion will promote the image  of the country and improve the economy .”The ministry is happy with the project but safety is paramount.  We will not compromise the safety of the people”. 

He however noted that NASENI was on course, as the helicopter if completed will help in fighting crime and for National building. 




SIGNED:
Chinyere Obiorah  Ekwuazi
Asst.Chief Information Officer

View event images in gallery