The Nigerian Army has strengthened its operational capacity as the 8 Division graduated a new set of drone pilots to enhance surveillance and combat efficiency.
The graduation, conducted under Sector 2 of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, took place at the Division Training School, Giginya Military Cantonment in Sokoto.
According to a statement by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, the training marks a significant milestone in the Division’s drive to tackle modern security challenges through the deployment of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs).
Speaking at the ceremony, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division and Commander, Sector 2 Joint Task Force (North West), Bemgba Paul Koughna, said the initiative aligns with the military’s focus on force protection and operational readiness.
“Drone integration is no longer optional but a necessity,” Koughna said.
He added, “True military strength lies not just in the acquisition of advanced equipment but in their effective integration into combat operations.”
The GOC noted that drones provide a strategic advantage by enabling troops to scout ahead, conserve resources and minimise risks in the field, urging the graduates to deploy their skills effectively in operations.
Earlier, the course coordinator, Samuel Yakubu, said the training programme was designed to improve frontline capabilities by providing troops with enhanced aerial surveillance tools.
“This initiative has elevated the capabilities of our frontline troops by giving them ‘eyes in the sky,’” Yakubu said.
He disclosed that 27 personnel drawn from various formations within the Division participated in the intensive training.
The trainees were equipped with skills in drone navigation using offline maps, understanding drone components, setting up ground control systems, aircraft assembly and disassembly, as well as takeoff and landing procedures.
Other areas covered included surveillance operations, imaging, video capture, zoom and gimbal control, aircraft handling and coordinate tracking.
The programme culminated in a practical demonstration where the graduates showcased tactical manoeuvres, surveillance hovering and precision landing skills before senior military officers.
“The practical display reflects the level of precision, control and tactical awareness the trainees have attained,” Osoba said in the statement.
Highlighting their performance, the GOC decorated the new drone pilots with wings and presented cash prizes to outstanding participants who excelled during the course.