Military Bans Drone Use In North East Nigeria

Military Bans Drone Use In North East Nigeria

The Joint Task Force of the military in Northeast Nigeria, operating under Operation Hadin Kai, has announced a prohibition on the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly referred to as drones, in the region.

This directive was issued by Air Commodore U.U. Idris, Air Component Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, in response to escalating security threats linked to unauthorized drone activities in Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa states.

According to a statement obtained from the Air Component Commander, there is significant concern over the unregulated use of drones by both government entities and private individuals.

“The proliferation of drones for personal and commercial use has raised serious security concerns,” the statement noted. “These concerns stem from their potential misuse by non-state actors and criminal groups for subversive or offensive activities.”

Air Commodore Idris further emphasized the global risks associated with drones, citing instances in other regions where they have been weaponized against military installations and critical national infrastructure (CNI).

The decision to impose the ban comes shortly after an incident on January 7, 2025, where a passenger on an NGO flight from Maiduguri to Monguno was found in possession of a drone during a routine security check at the helipad. The device was confiscated, and an investigation is ongoing.

READ ALSO:  Youths Protest Election Results In Abuja (Photos)

“This and other reported cases of unauthorized drone usage in the area highlight the growing trend of individuals operating drones without regard for safety and security, often with detrimental consequences,” Idris stated.

As part of its mandate, Operation Hadin Kai is responsible for regulating all aerial operations within the region, encompassing both manned aircraft and drones. This regulation aims to prevent airspace conflicts and ensure the security of military and civilian air operations in Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa states.

The ban underscores the military’s commitment to maintaining the security of the region and mitigating risks associated with modern technologies that can be exploited for harmful purposes.

Recommended For You

About the Author: Gists9ja

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *