FG to Boost Innovation with National Security with Stronger Drone Regulations

Federal government said it is committed to the implementation of stricter, more organized drone regulations to balance innovation with national security.

This came as stakeholders at the 6th Dronetecx Conference and Exhibition in Lagos called for stronger regulation and a comprehensive national policy framework for unmanned aircraft systems as the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) launched a Drone Portal.

Speaking at the conference, representatives of Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development and NCAA, said Nigeria is intensifying efforts to balance innovation with national security as drone operations continue to expand across sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, oil and gas, logistics, construction and security.

Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, national security adviser, represented by Commodore Oscar Mbanu, deputy director, Defence Affairs, said the federal government had adopted a strict but innovation-friendly regulatory framework requiring security clearance, end-user certification and operational approval before drones can be deployed.

He disclosed that a multi-agency drone task force involving the NCAA, security agencies and other relevant bodies had been established to strengthen monitoring, enforcement and accountability, while the End-User Certificate system would help track imported drones and prevent misuse.

Also speaking, Mahmud Kambari, permanent secretary, Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, represented by Mrs Rubiyatu Aliu, director of Air Safety and Administration in the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, announced the launch of a new digital drone registration portal and Flyer ID scheme introduced by the NCAA in partnership with Dronetecx to improve oversight and proper registration of operators.

She urged drone operators to comply with regulatory requirements, warning that innovation must operate within the law.

Captain Chris Najomo, director general of NCAA, said the Federal Government was moving from policy discussions to implementation with plans to establish a comprehensive national drone policy and roadmap approved by Mr Festus Keyamo, minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development.

He noted that the framework would complement existing aviation regulations and provide clearer direction for investors and operators in the rapidly growing industry.

Mr Fortune Edu, conference organiser and founder of Dronetecx, said Nigeria must urgently position itself as a leading player in Africa’s emerging drone economy or risk losing opportunities to countries already advancing in the sector.

He explained that the proposed national framework would support innovation, research, advanced air mobility and job creation while preparing the country for future drone applications including cargo delivery and passenger transportation.

Stakeholders at the conference expressed optimism that stronger collaboration between government agencies and industry operators would accelerate the safe growth of drone technology and support national development.