Nigeria’s first homebuilt helicopter prepares for takeoff – NASENI

Nigeria is preparing for a historic moment as its first domestically developed helicopter moves closer to its maiden flight, according to the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI). The aircraft, dubbed the “Nigerian Chopper,” is in its final assembly stage and is expected to take off soon.

The move marks a major step toward technological self-sufficiency in Nigeria’s aviation sector. Engineers from NASENI’s Aeronautics and Air Vehicle Development Institute have led the project, using a mix of imported aircraft parts and homegrown innovation to build the prototype.

Engr. Kareem Aduagba, the project manager, said the agency imported aircraft parts in Semi Knock Down (SKD) and Complete Knock Down (CKD) forms. Nigerian scientists and engineers then refined and adapted these parts locally using advanced manufacturing techniques.

“We are at the final stage. The first test flight of the Made-in-Nigeria helicopter will happen very soon,” Aduagba announced during a Focus Group Engagement held in Kaduna.

The gathering brought together policymakers, industry leaders, and academics to discuss strategies to reduce Nigeria’s reliance on foreign technology. Participants emphasized the potential of locally driven innovations to boost job creation, economic growth, and national pride.

NASENI has been advancing several aerospace and industrial projects, including Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). The helicopter project is part of a broader vision to develop Nigeria’s capacity in high-tech manufacturing.

Engr. Abdulfatai Ambali, head of NASENI’s Manufacturing Services Department in Kano, said the agency is shifting focus from R&D to commercialization. He credited Executive Vice Chairman Khalil Suleman Halilu with increasing public awareness and policy support for the agency’s programs.

The North West Zonal Coordinator of SMEDAN, Yusuf Suleman, echoed this sentiment, saying innovation partnerships will help address quality issues and scale marketing efforts for indigenous technologies.

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