"Aviation Crisis Unveiled: Nigerian College Sells Training Helicopters, Leaves Students Grounded"

Nigerian College of Aviation Technology Faces Crisis as it Lacks Training Helicopter after Selling 2 Choppers to Private Individuals

The Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT) in Zaria finds itself in a challenging predicament as it currently does not possess a single helicopter designated for training purposes. This revelation emerged during an investigative hearing convened by the House of Representatives to delve into the controversial sale of two helicopters owned by the institution.

Acting Rector of NCAT, Shaka Imalighwe, disclosed this disconcerting fact to the House of Representatives Committee on Public Assets. Imalighwe, who assumed the role of Acting Rector in January 2024, clarified that he was not part of the team or committee responsible for facilitating the sale of the helicopters, despite serving as the Deputy Rector when the transactions occurred.

The Committee, led by Chairman Ademorin Kuye, expressed deep concern over the decision to sell the helicopters to private individuals, leaving the College devoid of helicopters essential for training purposes. Additionally, questions were raised regarding the sale process, particularly concerning the expressed interest of security agencies, including the Nigerian Air Force, Navy, and Police, in purchasing the helicopters. These agencies not only conveyed their interest in writing but also visited the College with intentions to procure the helicopters.

However, the College's management reportedly rebuffed the security agencies' attempts to purchase the helicopters, prompting further scrutiny into the sale process. Consequently, the Committee directed the former and current Minister of Aviation, representatives from the Ministry of Works and Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI), as well as past and present rectors of NCAT, among others, to appear before the committee during the next investigative session.

This development underscores a critical challenge facing NCAT and raises pertinent questions about the transparency and accountability of the sale process. As stakeholders await further clarification and action from the authorities, the urgency to address the College's lack of training helicopters becomes increasingly evident, highlighting the broader implications for aviation training and safety in Nigeria.

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