The Azikel Group Aviation Training Programme has been cleared of wrongdoing following allegations raised by two former trainees.
The project coordinator, Comrade Robert Igali, described the programme as genuine and focused on supporting young Bayelsans interested in aviation careers.
Igali, who addressed journalists in Yenagoa, said the initiative is a philanthropic effort sponsored by Dr Eruani Azibabu Godbless, with no political or financial motive.
According to him, the programme trains aspiring pilots and aircraft engineers to help them build careers and return to Nigeria after completing advanced training in the United States.
“The Azikel Aviation Training Programme is purely to empower Bayelsa youths. Applications were free, no payments were requested, and all applicants were screened based on merit and science-related qualifications within the age range of 25 to 35″, Igali said.
He explained that trainees first undergo a Computer-Based Test (CBT) and a 16-month in-house training at the Azikel Aviation Hangar, where they are mentored, screened for character, and paid a monthly stipend of ₦205,200.
“This stage ensures only committed candidates proceed abroad because the company stands as guarantor for their return to Nigeria,” he noted.
Igali revealed that the two trainees resigned voluntarily after receiving a total of ₦3.28 million during their in-house training. “Reports from colleagues showed they were more focused on leaving Nigeria than learning,” he said. “Security checks also revealed plans to sell their belongings and disappear once they arrived in the United States.”
According to Igali, these concerns led the company to delay final recommendations for foreign training until character and commitment were confirmed. “The candidates began social media attacks and later resigned, but we see it as God’s mercy that they left before causing diplomatic issues,” he said.
He also added that official resignation letters and pending admission documents from the U.S. training school were available for verification.
“The claims against Azikel Group are baseless. This programme remains a credible platform to build aviation experts from Bayelsa. We are proud of our vision and thankful we avoided a situation where trainees could have embarrassed the nation,” Igali concluded.
