The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, has called for increased reliance on indigenous expertise to enhance the operational capabilities of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and ensure sustainable aviation solutions.
Air Marshal Abubakar made this appeal during an operational tour of NAF establishments in Lagos, where he also visited the Caverton Helicopters Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility. The tour included an evaluation of progress on the ongoing 2,500-hour and 5-year major inspections of NAF Bell-412 helicopters, NAF599 and NAF600.
In a statement issued on Saturday by Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa, NAF’s Director of Public Relations and Information, the CAS commended Caverton Helicopters for their technical expertise and state-of-the-art facilities. He expressed satisfaction with the quality of work, noting that NAF600 was nearing operational readiness, while NAF599 was at 70% completion.
Emphasis on Local Partnerships
Abubakar highlighted the importance of leveraging local partnerships to reduce dependence on foreign services, enhance fleet maintenance, and build national capacity in aircrew training and technical development.
“The collaboration with Caverton represents a model for sustainable solutions that align with the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to operational excellence,” he said.
The CAS also stressed that fostering indigenous expertise was critical for bolstering national security and achieving self-reliance in aviation operations.
Caverton’s Commitment to NAF
During the visit, the Chief Executive Officer of Caverton Helicopters, Mr. Olabode Makanjuola, assured Air Marshal Abubakar of the company’s continued dedication to delivering top-notch services to support NAF operations.
Makanjuola highlighted the facility’s achievements, including overhauling critical helicopter components, and underscored the importance of the NAF partnership in strengthening Nigeria’s aviation industry.
“The collaboration between Caverton and the NAF demonstrates the strategic value of indigenous partnerships in advancing the nation’s aviation sector and supporting national security objectives,” Makanjuola added.
Commitment to Operational Readiness
The CAS reiterated the NAF’s commitment to operational readiness and applauded the progress achieved through the partnership with Caverton. He emphasized that such collaborations would ensure a more self-sufficient Air Force capable of meeting Nigeria’s defense and security needs.
The visit underscores the NAF’s drive to enhance its technical capacity and operational efficiency through local expertise, aligning with broader national efforts to strengthen indigenous industries.
, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, has called for increased reliance on indigenous expertise to enhance the operational capabilities of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and ensure sustainable aviation solutions.){kind=link}