January 15, (THEWILL) – The Nigerian Air Force has imposed a ban on the use of drones in the North-East Theatre of Operation Hadin Kai, covering Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa states.
The Air Component Commander of Operation Hadin Kai (AC OPHK), Air Commodore Umar Idris, announced this in a statement on Wednesday, citing security and safety concerns as the basis for the restriction.
Idris stated that the Air Component is responsible for regulating all aerial platform operations in the region to ensure the safety and security of the airspace.
He warned that any breach of the ban, regardless of its scale, would be treated with the utmost seriousness.
“This regulation is necessary to deconflict the airspace and maintain the safety and security of all operators in the North-East Theatre. The ban underscores ongoing efforts to secure the region from potential threats posed by unauthorized drone operations amidst the fight against insurgency,” Idris stated.
Idris highlighted the increased use of drones by non-state actors and criminal elements for subversive activities, including attacks on military targets and Critical National Infrastructure.
He noted that the proliferation of drones for domestic and commercial purposes poses significant security risks in the region.
“Government agencies and private individuals have been observed operating drones without adherence to extant regulations, a situation that raises serious concerns over safety and security,” he said.
Citing a recent incident, Idris disclosed that a passenger on an NGO flight from Maiduguri to Monguno on January 7, 2025, was found in possession of an unauthorized drone.
The device was confiscated, and investigations are currently underway.
“This incident reveals a worrying trend of unauthorized drone operations, which, if left unchecked, could have detrimental consequences,” he added.
Idris called on stakeholders, including government agencies, private individuals, and Non-Governmental Organizations, to comply strictly with the ban on drone operations in the region.
He reiterated that violations of the restriction would attract severe consequences.
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