Nigerian military bans combat drone in North-East amid security concerns

The Joint Task Force of Operation Hadin Kai has implemented a ban on the operation of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, across Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa states due to escalating security concerns.

Air Commodore U.U. Idris, the Air Component Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, issued the directive, citing the security risks posed by unauthorized drone activities.

“The proliferation of drones for domestic and commercial purposes has led to serious security concerns,” Idris explained, stressing the potential exploitation of drones by non-state actors and criminal groups for subversive operations.

The directive pointed to frequent violations of drone operation regulations by both government agencies and private operators who failed to seek prior authorization. Recent cases, such as the interception of a drone on an NGO flight from Maiduguri to Monguno on January 7, 2025, highlight the dangers posed by unregulated drone use.

The confiscated drone is currently under investigation, raising alarms about threats to military assets and critical national infrastructure.

To address these risks, the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai has intensified its monitoring and regulation of aerial operations to secure the region’s airspace.

“The ban on drone operations in the North-East Theater remains in effect as directed by the Superior Authority. Any breach of this restriction, no matter how minor, will be taken very seriously,” warned Idris.

The directive urges all stakeholders to comply with the regulation, emphasizing that strict adherence is vital to maintaining security and preventing potential threats in the region.