By Chimezie Godfrey
The Nigerian Army has strengthened its intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities in the North-West with the graduation of 27 drone pilots under the 8 Division, as part of efforts to enhance operational readiness and modernise battlefield tactics.
The graduation ceremony, held at the Division Training School, Giginya Military Cantonment, Sokoto, marked a significant milestone in the integration of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) into ongoing counter-terrorism and anti-banditry operations under Operation FANSAN YAMMA.
Speaking at the event, the General Officer Commanding 8 Division and Commander, Sector 2 Joint Task Force (North West), Bemgba Paul Koughna, emphasised the growing importance of technology-driven warfare in addressing contemporary security challenges.
He noted that the deployment of drones offers a strategic advantage in modern operations, enabling troops to gather intelligence, monitor hostile movements, and reduce exposure to risks on the battlefield.
“Drones provide ‘eyes in the sky’ that allow us to scout ahead, conserve resources, and minimise unnecessary risks to troops,” he said, stressing that the integration of UAVs into combat operations is now a necessity rather than an option.
The GOC further stated that true military strength lies not merely in the acquisition of advanced equipment but in their effective integration into operational systems.
He charged the newly trained pilots to deploy their skills professionally and contribute meaningfully to ongoing operations within their respective units.
Earlier, the Course Coordinator, Samuel Yakubu, described the Drone Pilots Training Initiative as a strategic intervention designed to enhance operational effectiveness across formations within the Division’s area of responsibility.
According to him, the training programme, which drew participants from multiple units, was designed to equip frontline personnel with critical aerial surveillance capabilities.
He disclosed that a total of 27 personnel underwent intensive training covering key areas such as navigation using offline mapping systems, drone component functionality, ground control station setup, aircraft assembly and disassembly, and operational procedures.
Yakubu added that participants were also trained in take-off and landing techniques, surveillance operations, imaging and video capture, zoom and gimbal control, aircraft handling, and accurate coordinate acquisition.
The training culminated in a practical demonstration during which the graduating pilots showcased precision flying, tactical manoeuvres, surveillance hovering, and controlled landings.
The display, which drew commendation from senior officers, underscored the readiness of the newly trained personnel to support ongoing operations in the North-West theatre.
In recognition of their performance, Major General Koughna decorated the graduates with pilot wings and presented cash awards to outstanding participants who excelled during the course.