NCAA Unveils Digital Drone Portal to Strengthen Regulation, Drive Innovation in Nigeria
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority has launched a new digital portal for the regulation of drones and remotely piloted aircraft systems in a move aimed at enhancing operational safety, improving oversight, and supporting the rapid expansion of drone technology in Nigeria.
The platform, officially known as the Drone (Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)/Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) Portal, was unveiled during the 6th Africa International Drone Technology Conference and Exhibition, Dronetecx 2026, held in Lagos on Tuesday.
Speaking at the launch, the Director-General of Civil Aviation, Chris Najomo, described the initiative as a strategic breakthrough for Nigeria’s aviation sector and a critical step towards building a more organised and technology-driven drone ecosystem.
According to him, the increasing use of drones across different sectors of the economy has made it necessary for the regulatory authority to establish a more effective monitoring and management system capable of ensuring safe and responsible operations.
Capt. Najomo said the digital portal was developed to address concerns surrounding the uncontrolled spread of drones, particularly within the recreational category, while also creating a structured operational environment for commercial and institutional users.
He explained that the system would provide operators with easier access to regulatory processes and help the authority maintain accurate records of drone activities in the country.
“The idea is to curb drone proliferation, manage the rapid growth of the recreational open category of drones, provide a 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 said.
The NCAA chief stated that the digital platform aligns with global aviation trends and would support Nigeria’s ambition to become a leading force in the deployment and regulation of drone and automation technologies in Africa.
He further noted that the initiative received the backing of the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, who approved the commencement of the process for developing the policy framework and implementation roadmap for drone operations in the country.
According to Capt. Najomo, the framework has already been incorporated into the International Civil Aviation Organisation-supported Nigeria Civil Aviation Master Plan, underscoring the government’s commitment to the safe integration of emerging aviation technologies.
He also acknowledged the contributions of the conference convener, Fortune Idu, and other stakeholders in shaping a policy structure that complements the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations, particularly Nig. CARs Part 21 governing drone operations.
Capt. Najomo stressed that collaboration between regulators, operators, technology experts, and investors would be crucial in ensuring the sustainable growth of the industry.
Delivering a goodwill message at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mahmud Adam Kambari, represented by the Director of Air Safety Administration, Mrs Rabiat Tukur Ali, said the introduction of the portal and accompanying policy framework would improve accessibility for drone users and encourage wider adoption of unmanned aircraft technology.
She noted that the initiative would create opportunities for innovation and investment while supporting national development objectives in sectors such as agriculture, surveillance, infrastructure inspection, logistics, environmental monitoring, and emergency management.
Stakeholders at the conference described the launch as a timely intervention that would strengthen Nigeria’s regulatory capacity in the face of increasing drone usage and technological advancement across the aviation industry.
They also expressed optimism that the digital platform would simplify compliance procedures, promote accountability among operators, and encourage safer integration of drones into Nigeria’s airspace system.
