The DRONETECX 2026 conference in Lagos became a major platform for Nigeria’s growing unmanned aviation sector as the Federal Government pushed for stricter drone compliance, registration and lawful operations.
Speaking at the 6th International Drone Technology Conference and Expo held at the NIGAV Expo Centre, Lagos, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, described drones as transformative tools capable of boosting economic growth when properly regulated.
According to him, operators must embrace legalisation and comply fully with regulatory requirements established by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority as highlighted at the DRONETECX 2026.
Keyamo outlined steps required for operators seeking approval, including obtaining end-user certificates, approaching the NCAA for preliminary assessment, securing clearance from the Office of the National Security Adviser and registering equipment through the NCAA portal.
“Approach all end-users and professionals to visit the NCAA registration portal to legalise the equipment,” the minister stated during his goodwill message at the DRONETECX 2026.
He added: “Drones are transformative tools for our economy, but their power comes with the responsibility of lawful operation.”
Meanwhile, the minister stressed the importance of integrating modern drone identification and tracking systems into Nigeria’s aviation ecosystem to strengthen security and safety oversight.
“By securing the equipment remotely through local vehicle systems, you ensure that innovation stays on the right side of the law,” he said. He also commended the covener of the DRONETECX 2026, Mr. Fortune Idu for the time and effort he has put in driving the programme and awareness.
DRONETECX 2026 unveils NCAA drone portal
A major highlight of DRONETECX 2026 was the unveiling of the NCAA RPAS/UAV digital portal designed to improve drone registration and oversight across Nigeria.
The platform is expected to support the registration of remotely piloted aircraft systems users while enabling permit issuance, especially for operators within the open category below 250 grams.
Speaking during the DRONETECX 2026 conference, Director General of the NCAA, Captain Chris Ona Najomo, disclosed that the Federal Government had approved the commencement of a comprehensive national policy framework and roadmap for unmanned aircraft systems.
Delivering a keynote address titled “Policy: National Plan for UAS,” Najomo explained that the initiative marked a shift from isolated regulations towards a coordinated national drone strategy.
“At the last DRONETECX 2025, I tasked the conference convener, Mr Fortune Idu, and stakeholders with proposing a solution that will enable Nigeria to take its rightful position in the development and safe utilisation of drone and automation technologies in aviation,” Najomo said.
“The result was a solution to develop a policy framework that supports our already well-established regulations, Part 21.”
According to the NCAA boss, the policy framework would provide broader industry direction, define institutional responsibilities and establish a sustainable development roadmap for unmanned aviation in Nigeria.
“The idea was to provide a comprehensive roadmap and direction for the industry and establish a clear role for all to play in making Nigeria a prime player in the sector,” he stated.
National drone policy gains ministerial backing
Najomo further disclosed that the proposed framework had already secured the backing of the aviation minister and had been incorporated into Nigeria’s existing International Civil Aviation Organization civil aviation master plan.
“We graciously received the approval of the Honourable Minister of Aviation to commence the process of developing the policy framework and roadmap, which has been referenced in the current ICAO Nigeria Civil Aviation Master Plan,” he said.
In addition, the NCAA DG announced plans for collaboration between DRONETECX and the authority to establish a registration and certification framework for lightweight drone operators.
“I have given my blessing for the collaboration between DRONETECX and the NCAA to develop a flyer registration and certification process that will allow the NCAA to issue a flyer ID to flyers in the lower open category,” Najomo explained.
According to him, the measures would create a safer and more structured operating environment for innovation and commercial drone activities nationwide.
“All this is done to create a more conducive environment for advancing the sector seamlessly and enabling safe, secure practice,” he stated.
Najomo says drones represent the future
Speaking after inspecting the DRONETECX 2026 exhibition stands at the conference, Najomo said the rapid development of drone technology reflected growing global investment and innovation.
“This is a testament to what the president did for the people of China. So, what you are saying, you will see more of it,” he said.
“Drone is the way to go forward. Everywhere is drone, and drone is the way to go forward in terms of so many experts.”
He added that sectors including agriculture, oil and gas as well as security operations would increasingly depend on unmanned aviation technologies.
“Yes, agriculture, oil and gas, even security. So, drone is the way to go, and I’m happy that we’ve launched it,” Najomo said.
The growing momentum at DRONETECX 2026 further highlights Nigeria’s ambition to become a leading African hub for drone innovation, regulation and safe unmanned aircraft operations.
