NASENI, Caverton Commence Second Training for Female Drone Engineers
By Patience Ikpeme
The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) and Caverton Helicopters have initiated the second phase of a training programme focused on Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) technology for ten selected female engineers and scientists from across NASENI’s various institutes.
This six-week training programme began on Monday, April 7th, 2025, at Caverton’s training school located in Ikeja, Lagos. It forms part of the ongoing partnership agreement between NASENI and Caverton, known as NASCAV, which aims to strengthen NASENI’s capabilities within the aviation sector.
The training is a crucial element of the SHEFLY project, a pioneering initiative spearheaded by the Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NASENI, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu. SHEFLY is designed to empower rural women by enabling them to utilize drone technology for precision farming and to achieve increased agricultural yields, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Speaking on behalf of NASENI management, Dr. Abayomi Okesola, the Team Lead for the NASCAV project, welcomed the trainees to this significant training exercise with Caverton. He recognized Caverton as a valuable partner due to their strong track record in both aviation and marine industries.
Dr. Abayomi conveyed that the SHEFLY project holds particular importance for the EVC/CEO of NASENI, who views the exercise as a vital step towards promoting the inclusion of women in STEM fields and addressing the existing gender imbalance. He explained that the selection of female trainees from various institutes across different regions was a deliberate strategy to equip them to manage clusters that will be established to train rural women nationwide in drone technology for enhanced agricultural activities.
In his welcome address, the Managing Director of Caverton Helicopters, Captain Bello Ibrahim, who was represented by the Director of Corporate Services, Mr. Ayodele Omueti, highlighted Caverton’s diverse interests in aviation, marine, and training. He stressed the fundamental role of training in ensuring safety and accountability within these sectors.
Mr. Omueti noted that UAVs represent a modern advancement in the aviation sector and stated that “the training is timely to ensure we remain current with global technological advancements.” He encouraged the trainees to maintain focus in order to acquire the knowledge they have come for.
Mr. Ese Obukonise, the Project Coordinator for Caverton Drones, explained that the training program adheres to aerodynamic principles and is certified by a UK licensing authority, ensuring compliance with international standards and best practices. He stated that this certification will enable the trainees to maximize their potential and contribute effectively to NASENI’s initiatives.
Mr. Obukonise also pointed out the exceptionally high global demand for UAV pilots. He noted that the SHEFLY project will not only promote gender inclusiveness in a traditionally male-dominated field but will also empower women to capitalize on emerging opportunities within UAV technology. Upon completion of their training, these female engineers and scientists will, in turn, train rural women farmers to utilize drone technology to improve and boost their farm yields.
The SHEFLY project, which is scheduled to be launched soon at the Aeronautic and Air Vehicle Development Institute (AAVDI) of NASENI in Kaduna, is designed to enhance food security, improve crop yields, and increase the income of rural women farmers. The project’s objectives include training and deploying female drone pilots to support precision farming techniques, enhancing overall agricultural productivity and food security, empowering rural women to adopt innovative technologies, and fostering sustainable agriculture practices across Nigeria.
