The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, NCDMB, has launched a Helicopter Pilot Training Programme aimed at developing a cadre of highly skilled Nigerian pilots to meet the manpower needs of the aviation, oil and gas, logistics and security sectors.
The initiative, which will run for 18 months, is designed to provide participants with advanced aviation knowledge, technical skills and hands-on flight experience required for professional helicopter operations.
According to a statement by the NCDMB’s Corporate Communications Department, the programme is a strategic capacity-development intervention targeted at producing globally competitive Nigerian professionals capable of supporting the country’s growing aviation and energy industries.
At the end of the programme, trainees are expected to obtain both Private Pilot Licences, PPL, and Commercial Pilot Licences, CPL.
Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, who was represented by the Director of Capacity Building Division, Engr. Abayomi Bamidele, at the commencement of the programme, described the training as a strategic investment in human capital development and a critical step towards enhancing Nigerian participation in specialised aviation services.
The programme is being implemented through a collaboration between NCDMB, Chevron Nigeria Limited and Bristow Helicopters.
Under the arrangement, Chevron is supporting the initiative, while Bristow Helicopters is responsible for delivering the specialised pilot training.
Other officials present at the launch included the General Manager, Human Capacity Development, Mrs. Alexis Emelle, and the Manager, Capacity Building, Ms. Tarilate Teide-Bribena.
NCDMB said the programme aligns with its broader mandate of promoting local content development by equipping Nigerians with globally competitive skills capable of driving growth across key sectors of the economy.
Ten trainees, including female participants, emerged successful after a rigorous selection process involving a large pool of applicants from across the country.
The beneficiaries were encouraged to approach the training with dedication, discipline and a strong commitment to excellence, given the significant resources invested in their development.
The Board noted that the initiative represents a unique opportunity for the participants and urged them to maximise the benefits of the training to become ambassadors of professionalism in the aviation industry.
According to NCDMB, the programme will help create a sustainable pipeline of indigenous aviation professionals, reduce dependence on foreign expertise and strengthen local content capacity in helicopter operations.
The Board further stated that the partnership would not only support workforce development within the aviation and energy industries but also facilitate the transfer of international best practices and technical know-how to Nigerian professionals.
Upon completion, the trainees are expected to contribute significantly to the country’s aviation ecosystem, supporting critical operations in the oil and gas sector and other strategic industries that rely on helicopter services.
