Sanwo-Olu Reveals State-of-the-Art AW 109 Helicopter Simulator by Caverton

In a momentous event on Thursday, the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, inaugurated the Leonardo AW 109 Level 5 Simulator at the Caverton Helicopters Aviation Training Centre located in Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos. This significant addition to the aviation training infrastructure was met with praise from the governor, who commended Caverton’s founder and chairman, Aderemi Makanjuola, and the management for their impactful contributions to the Nigerian economy through job creation.

During his address, Governor Sanwo-Olu acknowledged Makanjuola’s entrepreneurial spirit, highlighting the uncommon terrain of Caverton’s business operations and expressing admiration for the strides made by the company under his leadership. The governor emphasized the importance of investments that prevent capital flight, citing the newly unveiled Leonardo AW 109 simulator as a crucial step in achieving self-sufficiency in aircraft training within the country.

Governor Sanwo-Olu lauded Caverton for creating a world-class training facility equipped with state-of-the-art simulators, allowing for comprehensive pilot training and certification locally. He emphasized the potential increase in skills and the influx of military and commercial operators seeking training, contributing to the growth of the aviation sector in Lagos and Nigeria as a whole.

Highlighting the significance of the Leonardo AW 109 simulator, Governor Sanwo-Olu recognized its superiority, comparing it to his experiences with foreign simulators. He applauded Caverton for its audacious approach and urged industry players to support such investments, ensuring that essential training activities no longer necessitate trips abroad.

Expressing confidence in the positive impact of the simulator on the local aviation industry, Governor Sanwo-Olu encouraged all stakeholders to rally behind initiatives like Caverton’s, fostering a self-sufficient training ecosystem within Nigeria.

The CEO of Caverton, Olabode Makanjuola, echoed the governor’s sentiments during his welcome address, underscoring the simulator’s role in advancing aviation training in Nigeria. He emphasized the company’s commitment to safety and operational excellence, with the new simulator complementing the existing AW 139 simulator to provide comprehensive training for Nigerian pilots.

Makanjuola stressed the pivotal role of the AW109 helicopter in Nigeria’s aerospace landscape, serving critical entities such as the Navy, Air Force, NIMASA, and various civil operators. The introduction of the AW109 simulator, according to Makanjuola, is a crucial step toward enhancing pilot competence and preparedness for diverse missions.

Notable personalities present at the event included the Lagos Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, and the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogala, who commended Caverton for reducing the stress and cost associated with aircraft maintenance, repairs, and pilot training abroad.

Appreciating the support from the government and other guests, Chairman of Caverton Offshore Support Group, Aderemi Makanjuola, announced the forthcoming launch of a third simulator. Makanjuola highlighted the company’s approach of raising the bar and providing solutions to challenges, expressing gratitude for the enabling environment created by the Nigerian government.

In a testament to Caverton’s success, Makanjuola reflected on the company’s journey, acknowledging the initial financial challenges and expressing gratitude for the support that has propelled Caverton to its current position. The event was also graced by other dignitaries, including Yoyinsola Makanjuola, Bello Gwandu, Rotimi Makanjuola, Allen Onyema, and Ambassador Bashir Yuguda.

Infostride News provides comprehensive coverage of this groundbreaking event, capturing the enthusiasm and optimism surrounding the advancement of aviation training in Lagos and Nigeria.