The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority has launched a new digital Drone Portal as part of efforts to improve the regulation, monitoring, and safe deployment of unmanned aircraft systems across the country.
The portal, designed for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) and Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS), was officially unveiled during the 6th Africa International Drone Technology Conference and Exhibition, Dronetecx 2026, held in Lagos on Wednesday
The launch marks a significant development in Nigeria’s aviation industry as authorities seek to keep pace with the growing use of drone technology for commercial, recreational, industrial, and security-related purposes.
Speaking during the unveiling ceremony, the Director-General of Civil Aviation, Chris Najomo, said the digital platform would serve as a critical regulatory tool for managing the increasing number of drone operators and activities within Nigeria’s airspace.
He noted that the rapid expansion of drone usage globally and within Nigeria had made it necessary for the aviation regulator to establish a comprehensive and technology-driven oversight system capable of ensuring safety, accountability, and compliance with aviation standards.
Capt. Najomo explained that the portal would help the authority monitor drone operations more effectively, particularly within the fast-growing recreational category, while also providing clear operational guidelines for users and stakeholders.
According to him, the initiative is intended to curb the uncontrolled proliferation of drones and create an organised structure that supports innovation without compromising safety and national security.
“The idea is to curb drone proliferation, manage the rapid growth of the recreational open category of drones, provide comprehensive roadmap and direction for the industry, as well as establish a clear role for all to play in making Nigeria a prime player in the sector,” he stated.
The NCAA Director-General added that the digital solution would enable Nigeria to position itself strategically within the global aviation technology ecosystem and promote the safe utilisation of drones and automation systems in different sectors of the economy.
He praised the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, for approving the commencement of the policy framework and roadmap development process for the drone industry.
Capt. Najomo disclosed that the framework has already been referenced in the current International Civil Aviation Organisation-backed Nigeria Civil Aviation Master Plan, highlighting its importance to the country’s long-term aviation development strategy.
He also commended the convener of Dronetecx 2026, Fortune Idu, alongside industry stakeholders, for supporting the development of a policy framework that aligns with the provisions of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations, particularly Nig. CARs Part 21.
According to him, stakeholder collaboration remains essential to building a thriving drone ecosystem capable of attracting investment, creating employment opportunities, and advancing technological innovation in Nigeria.
In a goodwill message delivered at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mahmud Adam Kambari, represented by Mrs Rabiat Tukur Ali, Director of Air Safety Administration, said the policy framework and portal would simplify access for drone users and encourage the wider adoption of UAS technology.
She noted that the initiative would support the responsible use of drone technology while opening up opportunities in agriculture, logistics, infrastructure inspection, disaster response, surveillance, environmental monitoring, and other critical sectors.
Stakeholders at the conference described the launch of the portal as a major step towards modernising Nigeria’s aviation regulatory environment and ensuring that drone operations are carried out within internationally accepted safety standards.
They also expressed optimism that the initiative would promote transparency, improve compliance, and strengthen Nigeria’s capacity to harness the economic potential of emerging drone technologies.
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