NAF Strengthens Helicopter Maintenance Capacity Through A109 Trekker Type Training In Italy

NAF strengthens helicopter maintenance capacity through A109 Trekker type training in Italy. In line with its commitment to strengthening technical expertise and sustaining operational readiness, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) trained four of its personnel on the Airframe Maintenance Type Training Course for the A109 Trekker Helicopter at the Leonardo Helicopter Division Facility in Sesto Calende, Italy, from 12 January to 20 February 2026.

The comprehensive training programme featured rigorous theoretical and practical phases, during which participants were instructed on the identification of AW109S Trekker helicopter systems and subsystems, their modes of operation, as well as critical procedures for effective maintenance and troubleshooting required to keep the aircraft in an airworthy condition. The course also emphasised the proper interpretation and application of maintenance manuals, which are essential for ensuring safe, efficient and standardised maintenance practices.

This initiative aligns with the command philosophy of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, which places strong emphasis on deliberate capacity development, technical excellence and continuous professional advancement of personnel to enhance mission effectiveness.

NAF

By investing in specialised training with original equipment manufacturers and globally recognised aviation institutions, the NAF continues to build a highly skilled workforce capable of sustaining its modern fleet and supporting ongoing air operations.

At the conclusion of the programme, the participating personnel were awarded certificates in recognition of their successful completion of the course.

EFCC Arraigns Chinese Zhang Wen Hao For Cheating

EFCC arraigns Chinese Zhang Wen Hao for cheating. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC Abuja Zonal Directorate has arraigned a Chinese, Zhang Wen Hao, before Justice Ibrahim Shekarau of the Nasarawa High Court sitting in Mararaba

He was arraigned on a one count charge bordering on cheating.

The count reads “That you, Zhang Wen Hao sometime in March 2023 at Suleja within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court did intentionally induce Paul Yichol with One Thousand Naira only to open account number 1715754475 in his name with Access Bank PLC for the purpose of using same for unlawful activity and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 320 of the Penal Code Law of Northern Nigeria and punishable under Section 322 of the same Law.”

EFCC

He pleaded not guilty, prompting the prosecution counsel Taiwo Aromolaran to ask the judge for a date to commence trial. Meanwhile, counsel to the defendant Michael Ukatu made an oral application for bail

Justice Shekarau adjourned the matter till March 12, 2026 for hearing of the bail application and ordered that the defendant be remanded in the custody of the EFCC.

Residents Appeal For Immediate Resumption Of Road Project In Abuja Community

Residents appeal for immediate resumption of road project in Abuja community. Residents of the Mpape community in the Bwari council have appealed for the immediate resumption of work on the abandoned Mpape Road project.

News Agency of Nigeria • March 6, 2026
Road under construction used to illustrate this story (Credit: X)
Road under construction used to illustrate this story (Credit: X)
Residents of the Mpape community in the Bwari council have appealed for the immediate resumption of work on the abandoned Mpape Road project.

The residents made the appeal on Friday in a letter addressed to FCT minister Nyesom Wike, describing the road as the only major access route into Mpape District.

“It is also a critical link to other parts of the FCT,” the residents said in the letter.

Donatus Shekwolo, who signed the letter on behalf of the Mpape residents, commended the ongoing infrastructure reforms across the territory and urged the minister not to forget the area.

“The suspension of the Mpape Road project has continued to inflict hardship on residents and commuters.

“The road’s deplorable condition has led to daily gridlock, prolonged travel time and frequent vehicle breakdowns. Transportation costs have risen, while safety risks increase during the rainy season.

“Mpape hosts an estimated 500,000 residents, including civil servants, artisans and traders contributing to Abuja’s economy,” Mr Shekwolo said in the letter.

Mr Shekwolo noted that the area accommodates the Julius Berger Nigeria Plc quarry site, which supports construction activities across Abuja.

“The presence of heavy-duty trucks, alongside commercial and private vehicles, places enormous pressure on the damaged road,” said Mr Shekwolo.

He said, on behalf of the residents, that constant interaction between trucks and smaller vehicles has worsened the road’s deterioration and heightened accident risks.

Road projects

“Several houses and businesses were demolished to pave the way for the project, and many families remain displaced, while portions of land were left exposed and unsafe.

“Completing the road will enhance mobility, economic activities, security and emergency response services. The minister should intervene and ensure the immediate resumption and timely completion of this project,” the letter stated.