NASENI, Caverton Enter Agreement to Establish Drone Assembly Plant and Training Center
The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) and Caverton Offshore Support Group (COSG) Plc have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to set up a Drone Assembly Plant, a Drone Training School, and a Service Center for Helicopters in Nigeria.
The pact was sealed yesterday in Lagos by Khalil Suleiman Halilu, the executive vice chairman and chief executive officer of NASENI, and Rotimi Makanjuola, the chief operating officer of Caverton Offshore Support Group, following a tour of Caverton’s maintenance repair and overhaul (MRO) facilities by Halilu.
Halilu commended Caverton Helicopters for elevating Nigeria and Africa’s profile globally in the aviation industry, emphasizing their commitment to excellence and standards.
“At NASENI, we are constantly seeking partnerships with technology and innovation leaders in Nigeria, particularly in our key sectors such as Defence and Aerospace, Engineering and Manufacturing, Renewable Energy, Health and Biotechnology, Agriculture, Transportation, Education, IT, Software, Construction, and Smart Cities. We have found a fitting partner in Caverton,” he stated.
Highlighting the Nigerian government’s support for indigenous enterprises, Halilu added, “As Nigeria’s sole purpose-built federal agency mandated to intervene in Science and Engineering Infrastructure, we aim for tangible actions that resonate with our principles of Collaboration, Creation, and Commercialization.
This MoU signifies the beginning of a promising collaboration that will yield significant benefits in terms of employment, skills transfer, technology advancement, industrial growth, and aviation sector development.”
Makanjuola expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, noting Caverton’s readiness to expand collaboration with NASENI. He highlighted Caverton’s capabilities in training, maintenance, and its willingness to collaborate in reviving government aircraft.
“We have already engaged in MRO services for the Air Force, Navy, and foreign governments. Discussions are underway with Senegal and Ivory Coast for helicopter pilot training. With NASENI’s support, we can identify and revive serviceable government aircraft, contributing to their operational readiness,” Makanjuola explained.
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Regarding drones, Makanjuola stated, “We recognize the need for proper drone training facilities amid evolving regulations. We’re taking proactive steps to establish such facilities, ensuring compliance with NCAA regulations.”
Dr. Dahiru Mohammed, Chairman of the Production Implementation Committee on Technology Transfer (PICTT), emphasized the aim to localize aviation technology through collaboration with Caverton. He praised Caverton’s leading role in aviation training and highlighted the comprehensive programs offered at their training center.
