Lagos: The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) announced its collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) to integrate an anti-drone system designed for threat detection and neutralization. Capt. Chris Najomo, the Director-General of NCAA, revealed this during his keynote address at the Fifth Drone Technology Conference and Exhibition.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Najomo emphasized NCAA’s commitment to developing a risk-regulatory framework that includes interim guidelines for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) operations. He highlighted the need to align with global standards, referencing the International Civil Aviation Organisation’s model UAS Regulations and Specific Operations Risk Assessment, while also considering Nigeria’s unique socio-economic contexts.
Najomo outlined NCAA’s comprehensive efforts, including standardization and certification protocols, such as establishing ‘mandatory type certification’ for UAS designs to ensure airworthiness and cybersecurity resilience. He also mentioned the implementation of a national UAS registry linked to real-time tracking systems to enhance accountability and the deployment of geo-fencing technologies to restrict UAS access to sensitive zones like airports and government installations.
On capacity building, Najomo announced the launch of a National UAS Academy in partnership with universities and aviation industry leaders to foster technical expertise. Public awareness campaigns to educate communities on UAS benefits and regulatory obligations are also planned.
Najomo acknowledged challenges such as regulatory fragmentation, technological gaps, and public skepticism, urging industry leaders to adopt ethical self-regulation. He called on academia to prioritize UAS research and legislators to champion forward-thinking policies, aiming to transform Nigeria into a regional hub for UAS innovation, manufacturing, and talent development.
He encouraged stakeholders in the UAS ecosystem to register with NCAA, emphasizing that clearance from the National Security Adviser had been obtained. Najomo highlighted the role of UAS in the Fourth Industrial Revolution, reshaping industries through automation, artificial intelligence, and data analytics.
In a separate presentation titled ‘Preparing for Vertiport,’ Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, the Managing Director of Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), stressed efforts to ensure Nigeria’s participation in the evolving era of Advanced Air Mobility. She envisioned a future where electric aircraft taxis, guided by artificial intelligence, will transform transportation in Nigeria.
The conference and exhibition were attended by drone manufacturers, operators, and service providers.