Middle East Conflict Highlights Urgent Need for Drone Technology in Nigeria

The ongoing Middle East conflict has underscored the critical need for Nigeria to adopt and deploy drone technology to enhance national security and stimulate economic growth, according to Okosubide Mozimo.

Mozimo made the remarks in Abuja during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between his company, ARCO Worldwide Services Limited, and the National Centre for Technology Management (NACETEM). The pact, also signed by NACETEM’s Director-General, Dr Olushola Odusanya, seeks to promote research, innovation, and capacity-building in drone technology.

The collaboration aims to train young Nigerians in drone production, piloting, and maintenance for applications in security, agriculture, oil and gas, healthcare, and infrastructure monitoring.

“Modern conflicts, like the ongoing hostilities involving Israel and Iran, have shown that drones are central to military operations. Nigeria cannot afford to ignore this technology,” Mozimo said, emphasizing the job-creation potential of drone innovation.

Odusanya added that translating scientific and technological innovations into commercial products is crucial for boosting the Nigerian economy. He stressed that a thriving innovation ecosystem requires supportive structures and market-ready products.