See Reasons Nigerian Military Imposes Ban on Drone Operations in the North East
The Nigerian military’s Joint Task Force in the North East, known as Operation Hadin Kai, has issued a new directive prohibiting the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), or drones, across the region.
Air Commodore U.U. Idris, the Air Component Commander of the operation, made the announcement in an official statement, highlighting the significant security risks posed by unauthorized drone usage in the states of Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa.
The statement read, “The widespread use of drones for both domestic and commercial purposes has raised serious security concerns, particularly regarding their potential misuse by criminal elements and non-state actors for subversive and offensive purposes.”
Idris emphasized the lack of adherence to existing regulations, particularly by government agencies and private individuals, when operating drones in these areas. He pointed out that these actions often ignore the necessary safety and security protocols.
He added, “Non-state actors have been known to exploit drones to target military installations and critical national infrastructure, a trend that has been observed globally.”
The directive follows several reports of unauthorized drone activity in the region. On January 7, 2025, for example, a drone was intercepted during a search of a passenger onboard an NGO flight traveling from Maiduguri to Monguno. The drone was seized, and an investigation is currently underway.
“These incidents demonstrate a growing pattern of individuals operating drones without regard for safety and security, with potentially dangerous consequences,” Idris stated.
The Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai is tasked with overseeing and regulating all aerial operations in the North East, including drones, to ensure the safe management of airspace in Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa.
Idris reiterated the importance of adhering to the drone ban, emphasizing that violations, regardless of their scale, would be treated with the utmost seriousness. He called for strict compliance with the new regulation to safeguard both air and ground operations in the region.
“The ban on drone operations in the North East, as mandated by the appropriate superior authority, must be fully observed,” Idris concluded. “We urge all stakeholders to cooperate with this regulation in the interest of the region’s security and safety.”
