NASENI To Commission UAV Facility, Skill Development Centre In Kaduna, Empower 500 Households

The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) is set to commission an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) training facility and a skill development centre in Kaduna State as part of efforts to promote technological innovation, develop local skills and expand access to clean energy.

The initiative will also empower 500 households with clean energy solutions under the agency’s Sustainable Empowerment Programme (NSEP).

According to NASENI, the commissioning activities will take place on Monday, October 19, 2026, in Kaduna State, following engagements between the agency and the Kaduna State Government to strengthen cooperation in technological innovation, skills development and sustainable empowerment.

The programme will be led by the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NASENI, Khalil Suleiman Halilu, alongside the Executive Governor of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani.

As part of the activities, NASENI will commission the National UAV Training Facility, described as a facility designed to promote indigenous aviation technology, develop technical skills and strengthen Nigeria’s capacity in unmanned aerial vehicle operations.

The agency will also establish a NASENI Technology Limited facility, a joint venture expected to promote indigenous aviation technology, develop technical skills and strengthen the country’s capacity in unmanned aerial vehicle operations.

The facility is expected to support the research, development, assembly, training and maintenance of drones, contributing to Nigeria’s drive towards technological self-reliance and industrial development.

NASENI will also commission its Skill Development Centre in Rigachikun, Kaduna State, which is expected to provide technical skills training in enterprise and industrial development. The centre will prepare participants for employment and self-reliance while supporting the growth of local industries.

In the area of clean energy, the agency will implement its Sustainable Empowerment Programme, targeting 450 women and 50 men. The initiative will provide beneficiaries with clean energy solutions and support them in reducing energy costs, improving household livelihoods and ensuring access to innovative technologies.

The programme will also feature the signing of a memorandum of understanding between NASENI and the Kaduna State Government to strengthen collaboration in advancing technological innovation and sustainable development.

The activities will conclude with an event at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Kaduna, where NASENI and the state government are expected to highlight their commitment to technological advancement, local manufacturing and the commercialisation of indigenous innovations.