Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, inaugurated the Leonardo AW 109 Level 5 Simulator at Caverton Helicopters Aviation Training Centre in Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos. The event showcased the company’s commitment to technological advancement and expertise in the aviation industry.
Governor Sanwo-Olu applauded Caverton’s founder and chairman, Aderemi Makanjuola, for his notable contributions to the Nigerian economy through job creation. Describing Makanjuola as a visionary leader, the governor commended the company’s audacity in investing and preventing capital flight by providing top-notch training locally.
The Leonardo AW 109 Simulator, a world-class facility, was unveiled as part of Caverton’s efforts to bolster aviation training in Nigeria. Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the significance of having such high-level training facilities within Lagos and encouraged stakeholders to support and rally behind such investments.
CEO of Caverton, Olabode Makanjuola, expressed pride in launching the AW109 simulator, emphasizing its role in advancing aviation training in Nigeria. He noted that the simulator, dedicated to supporting Nigerian pilots, represents a crucial step towards enhancing competence and preparedness for various missions involving the AW109 helicopter.
The AW109 helicopter plays a pivotal role in Nigeria’s aerospace landscape, serving entities such as the Navy, Air Force, NIMASA, and civil operators. The simulator’s introduction aims to elevate safety and operational standards while positioning Nigeria as a regional hub for advanced aviation training.
Dignitaries at the event included Lagos Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, and the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogala, represented by Rear Admiral Bolaji Orederu. Vice Admiral Ogala acknowledged Caverton’s achievement, emphasizing its positive impact on reducing stress and costs related to aircraft maintenance, repairs, and pilot training abroad.
Chairman of Caverton Offshore Support Group, Aderemi Makanjuola, expressed gratitude for the government’s support, creating an enabling environment for the company’s success. He announced the upcoming launch of a third simulator and highlighted the financial efficiency achieved by having the simulator on-site.
The event was attended by various notable figures, including the Chairman of Caverton Helicopters, Bello Gwandu, Group Chief Operating Officer Rotimi Makanjuola, CEO of Air Peace Limited Allen Onyema, and former Minister of State for Finance Ambassador Bashir Yuguda.
