The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority has issued the Arco Aviation Academy certification for training in Remote Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS). This milestone was achieved on June 4, 2025, following Arco’s successful completion of the NCAA’s rigorous five-phase approval process. The academy demonstrated full compliance with the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig. CARs) Part 21.
This significant step is intended to strengthen Nigeria’s capacity for deploying Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). It also aligns with the NCAA’s objective to build sustainable aviation competencies and modernize training.
During a short ceremony at the NCAA headquarters in Abuja, the Director General Civil Aviation, Captain Chris Najomo, officially presented the certificate to the institution. He applauded Arco Aviation Academy for meeting every regulatory requirement under the civil aviation law.
“This certification is a result of hard work, commitment, and compliance,” said Captain Najomo. “Now begins the real task of maintaining the standards you have demonstrated. NCAA will continue surveillance and extend full support.”
The Director General emphasized the importance of consistency and strict adherence to training quality and regulatory expectations. He urged the newly certified training provider to stay diligent and continuously evolve with industry trends.
Courses to be offered by the institution include the Basic Remote Pilot Course, the Remote Pilot Course for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS), and the Remote Pilot Course for Below Line of Sight (BLOS). These courses are aimed at developing skilled professionals in the emerging drone sector.
The inspection process prior to certification was thorough and covered several operational aspects. Areas evaluated included General Administration, Management Structure, Instructional Delivery, Courseware and Lesson Plans, Record Keeping Systems, and Quality Systems.
Speaking during the event, Director Aerodrome and Airspace Standards and Chairman of NCAA’s Flight Standards Group, Engineer Godwin Balang, praised the academy. He described the certification as a bold initiative that will positively impact both human capital development and Nigeria’s aviation economy.
“This certification process represents a pioneering collaboration between regulators and educators,” Engr. Balang stated. “We expect Arco Aviation Academy to set high standards and train competent drone operators who will contribute meaningfully to the aviation sector.”
Engr. Balang noted that the need for well-trained drone pilots is increasing, especially with rising demands in surveillance, agriculture, mapping, emergency services, and logistics.
Certification Project Manager, Captain Maikano T.W., who oversaw the approval process, praised the academy’s efforts and acknowledged the NCAA’s leadership support.
“This milestone was a collective achievement. The support from the Director General and the entire NCAA team made this possible,” he said.
In his remarks, Managing Director of Arco Aviation Academy, Mr. Okosubide Mozimo, expressed gratitude to the NCAA leadership for their guidance and support. He also commended Engr. Balang for his longstanding encouragement, dating as far back as 2016, during Arco’s early stages.
“We appreciate the trust reposed in us. This certification validates our years of preparation and commitment to training excellence,” said Mr. Mozimo.
Accountable Manager of the academy, Mr. Wisdom Erae, echoed the managing director’s remarks and emphasized the institution’s drive for continuous improvement.
“Our team remains focused on setting benchmarks in aviation training. Compliance will remain our cornerstone,” Erae said confidently.
The ceremony was witnessed by top NCAA officials, including directors and technical inspectors, alongside representatives of Arco Aviation Academy. Attendees described the event as an important chapter in Nigeria’s efforts to integrate RPAS operations into the mainstream aviation framework.
As demand for unmanned aerial services continues to grow, especially in urban and industrial applications, certified training centres like Arco are expected to play a major role. They will help build a pool of qualified professionals ready to manage the evolving needs of Nigeria’s aviation and security landscape.
With the Arco Aviation Academy certification now in place, stakeholders anticipate an increase in RPAS literacy, improved safety standards, and job creation in drone technology fields.
Furthermore, experts believe this initiative will help Nigeria meet global aviation training benchmarks, while also enhancing local capacity to respond to complex airspace challenges.
The NCAA has reaffirmed its position as a forward-looking regulator, supporting educational institutions while ensuring that safety and performance are never compromised. This development signals Nigeria’s readiness to harness the full potential of RPAS technology through proper certification and training.
