•• Says Non-Compliant Operators Face Heavy Fines, Imprisonment, Equipment Seizure
As drone technology continues to transform photography, agriculture, and surveillance across Nigeria, the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued a comprehensive compliance guide to ensure the safety and security of the Nigerian airspace.
Operating a drone (UAV/RPAS) in Nigeria is not merely a hobbyist activity but a regulated aviation operation coordinated alongside the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) and the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).
According to a document sighted by 9japarrot media, it reveals the Step-by-Step Path to Compliance as follows;
To legally operate a drone in Nigeria, every owner and pilot must navigate a structured regulatory framework. Failure to follow these steps can lead to criminal prosecution or permanent seizure of equipment;
• Obtain Security Clearance (ONSA):
•• Before registration, operator must apply for an End User Certificate (EUC) from the Office of the National Security Adviser for every specific UAV/RPA unit.
••• Operator must Register with the NCAA:
Once security clearance is obtained, sign up on the official NCAA portal: www.rpas.ncaa.gov.ng.
The 5-Phase Certification Process:
* For formal safety authorization, operators must pass through:
* Phase 1: Pre-Application
* Phase 2: Formal Application
* Phase 3: Document Evaluation
* Phase 4: Demonstration (Testing)
* Phase 5: Final Certification
NCAA emphasizes that knowing the law before one fly is the only way to avoid legal trouble, noting that under Nig.CARs Part 21, the following rules are non-negotiable:
It is illegal to fly any UAS/RPAS without combined ONSA and NCAA approval, Operators must strictly observe No-Fly Zones (near airports, military installations, and government buildings) and adhere to specified altitude limits, and Pilots are reminded to respect the privacy of citizens and fly ethically at all times.
It further added that for those seeking guidance through the certification process, the NCAA has established the Unmanned Aircraft Systems Integration Unit (UASIU). This focal point provides direct support to help operators integrate safely into the national airspace.
Contact Information:
* Portal: www.rpas.ncaa.gov.ng
* Support Line: +234 806 557 0839
The Nigerian airspace is a critical national asset. By following these guidelines, drone operators contribute to a safer, more secure environment for everyone, NCAA added.