By Abdullahi Musa
During an operational tour of the Nigerian Air Force, NAF establishments in Lagos State, the Chief of the Air Staff, CAS, Air Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar, visited Caverton Helicopters Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul, MRO, where he advocated for indigenous expertise in advancing the capabilities of the NAF.
The CAS had visited the facility to evaluate progress on the ongoing 2,500-hour and 5-year major inspections of NAF Bell-412 helicopters (NAF 599 and NAF 600).
A statement weekend by NAF spokesperson Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa disclosed that the visit highlighted the critical role of indigenous expertise in advancing NAF’s operational capabilities and fostering sustainable aviation solutions.
Air Marshal Abubakar commended Caverton’s technical expertise and cutting-edge facilities, expressing satisfaction with the quality of work being done.
He noted that NAF 600 was near operational readiness, while NAF 599 was 70% complete.
The CAS emphasized the importance of leveraging local partnerships to reduce reliance on foreign services, enhance NAF’s fleet maintenance, and build national capacity for aircrew training and technical development.
He described the collaboration with Caverton as a model for sustainable solutions that align with the NAF’s commitment to operational excellence.
Chief Executive Officer of Caverton Helicopters, Olabode Makanjuola, assured the CAS of the company’s readiness to continue delivering top-notch services to support NAF operations.
He highlighted the facility’s achievements in overhauling critical helicopter components and noted the value of the NAF partnership in strengthening Nigeria’s aviation industry.
“The visit underscored the strategic importance of indigenous collaborations in bolstering national security and advancing Nigeria’s aviation sector,” the statement read in part.