The apex aviation regulatory agency, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), said Wednesday the regulation of remotely piloted aircraft systems/unmanned aerial vehicle (RPAS/UAV) known as drones is key for ensuring national security.
Daily Trust reports that the NCAA’s regulation, which forbids illegal operation of drones, took effect last year. The regulation makes it mandatory for operators of drones to register with the authority.
- N2.54trn spent to identify, treat 1m HIV patients in Nigeria in 13 yrs
- NYSC blocks 1,000 corps members from relocating
The Director-General of NCAA, Capt. Musa Nuhu, stated that the huge demand for drones and the pace of development of the drone market for both recreational and commercial were “incredibly high”.
Nuhu stated this in his presentation on ‘Drone Essence, Growth and Regulations in Nigeria’ at the Airport Business Summit on Cargo & Aero Logistics taking place in Lagos.
He noted that the use of drones was originally meant for the military and aerospace industries but with its fast adoption especially for recreational purposes, it needs a strong regulatory framework to ensure safety and security.
According to him, the NCAA and the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) are on the same page to mitigate risks of drone operation to national security and public safety.