The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority has launched a new digital Drone/Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) and Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) Portal aimed at curbing the proliferation of drones, regulating recreational drone usage, and strengthening the development of Nigeria’s drone industry.
The portal was unveiled during the 6th Africa International Drone Technology Conference and Exhibition (Dronetecx 2026) held in Lagos on Tuesday.
Speaking at the event, the Director-General of the NCAA, Chris Najomo, said the digital platform became necessary due to the rapid increase in drone activities across the country, especially within the recreational category.
According to him, the initiative is designed to provide a comprehensive roadmap for the industry, define the roles of operators and regulators, and ensure safer and more coordinated drone operations in Nigeria’s airspace.
Najomo noted that the platform would also support Nigeria’s ambition to become a major player in the development and safe utilisation of drone and automation technologies in aviation.
He commended the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, for approving the commencement of the policy framework and roadmap development process referenced in the ICAO Nigeria Civil Aviation Master Plan.
The NCAA boss also praised Dronetecx 2026 convener, Fortune Idu, and other stakeholders for supporting the development of a policy framework that aligns with the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig. CARs Part 21).
In a goodwill message, 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 framework would promote easier access to UAS technology and encourage the responsible adoption of drone innovation in Nigeria.
