By Uzair Adam
The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has announced that engineering work on Nigeria’s first made-in-Nigeria helicopter is almost complete, with a test flight expected soon.
Kareem Aduagba, Project Manager of NASENI’s Aeronautics and Air Vehicle Development Institute in Kaduna, made this known during a Focus Group Engagement organized by the agency.
The event, attended by academics, private sector manufacturers, and government officials, aimed to promote local manufacturing and innovation.
Aduagba explained that NASENI is working on both locally designed aircraft and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) while also leveraging Semi Knock Down (SKD) and Complete Knock Down (CKD) components acquired from developed countries.
“Very soon, we will conduct the first test. Everything is nearing completion, and soon, we will fly Nigeria’s first locally-made helicopter,” he said.
Abdulfatai Ambali, Head of the Manufacturing Services Department at NASENI’s Hydraulic Equipment Development Institute in Kano, emphasized the agency’s renewed focus on commercializing innovations and strengthening collaborations.
He noted that NASENI, under the leadership of Executive Vice Chairman Khalil Suleman Halilu, is increasing awareness of its activities while developing homegrown technologies to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on foreign products.
Saleh Kwaru, the facilitator of the programme, urged Nigerians to support local industries, stressing that national development depends on patronizing indigenous products.
Similarly, Yusuf Suleman, Acting Zonal Coordinator for the North West Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), praised NASENI for addressing quality and production challenges hindering locally-made products.
“Innovation and modern technology are key to improving the acceptance of Nigerian products. This kind of engagement will help tackle production challenges and create more job opportunities,” he said.