By Milcah Tanimu
The House of Representatives expressed displeasure on Thursday regarding the sale of two helicopters belonging to the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria, to private individuals.
According to reports, the two helicopters, identified as Bell 206L4 BZB and Bell M2061-L4, were sold in May 2023.
During an investigative hearing in Abuja on Thursday, Ademorin Kuye, Chairman of the House of Reps Committee on Public Assets, voiced concerns over the sale, noting that it left the college without helicopters for training purposes.
Kuye also raised questions about the sale process, highlighting that security agencies such as the Nigerian Air Force, Navy, and Police were denied the opportunity to purchase the helicopters despite expressing interest. These agencies had both submitted written requests and visited the college to express interest in acquiring the helicopters, as per various testimonies.
Responding to queries, Acting Rector of NCAT, Shaka Imalighwe, clarified that he was not involved in the sales process as he was Deputy Rector at the time. He took over as acting Rector in January 2024. Imalighwe further explained that the helicopters were operational and maintained by relevant aviation authorities before being sold. He also confirmed the absence of any helicopters for training at the institution currently.
The committee has summoned both the former and current Ministers of Aviation to appear at the next investigative hearing. Additionally, the Ministry of Works, Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI), as well as former and current rectors of the college, among others, have been called to provide explanations.
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