The Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai (AC OPHK) has reaffirmed the ban on drone operations in the Northeast Theatre, covering Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa states, citing critical security and safety concerns.
Air Commodore Umar Idris, the Air Component Commander of AC OPHK, stated in Maiduguri on Wednesday, highlighting the security risks posed by the proliferation of drones for domestic and commercial purposes in the region.
He explained that the increasing use of drones by non-state actors and criminal elements for subversive activities, including attacks on military targets and Critical National Infrastructure (CNI), necessitated the ban.
“Government agencies and private individuals have been observed operating drones without adhering to extant regulations, raising significant safety and security concerns,” Idris stated.
The commander recalled an incident on January 7, 2025, where a passenger on an NGO flight from Maiduguri to Monguno was intercepted with an unauthorised drone. The drone was confiscated, and investigations are ongoing.
“This incident reveals a troubling trend of unauthorised drone operations, which, if left unchecked, could have detrimental consequences,” Idris added.
He stressed that AC OPHK is tasked with 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, no matter how minor, would be treated with the utmost seriousness.
The commander called on stakeholders, including government agencies, private individuals, and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), to comply with the regulation.
“This measure is essential to deconflict the airspace and maintain the safety and security of all operators in the North-East Theatre,” Idris said.
He underscored that the ban is part of ongoing efforts to secure the region from potential threats posed by unauthorised drone operations amid the fight against insurgency.
