By Fatima Saka
The Nigerian Army’s 8 Division has strengthened its operational readiness with the graduation of 27 newly trained drone pilots, marking a significant shift toward technology-driven security operations in the North West.
The graduates, drawn from formations under the Division and Sector 2 of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, completed an intensive Drone Pilots Training Cadre at the Division Training School, Giginya Military Cantonment. The initiative is part of efforts to enhance battlefield intelligence, improve surveillance, and reduce risks to troops in ongoing operations.
Speaking at the ceremony, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division and Commander, Sector 2 Joint Task Force (North West), Major General Bemgba Paul Koughna, said the integration of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) has become critical in modern warfare.
He stressed that drones provide a strategic advantage by enabling troops to scout ahead, conserve resources, and minimize exposure to danger. According to him, military effectiveness depends not just on acquiring advanced technology but on its seamless deployment in combat situations.
Koughna described drone integration as “no longer optional,” urging the newly trained pilots to apply their skills effectively in support of ongoing operations across the Division’s area of responsibility.
Earlier, the Course Coordinator, Captain Samuel Yakubu, described the training programme as a visionary initiative designed to equip frontline troops with enhanced situational awareness. He noted that the programme has significantly improved operational capabilities by providing soldiers with real-time aerial intelligence.
The trainees underwent rigorous instruction covering drone navigation using offline maps, aircraft assembly and startup procedures, ground control station setup, and surveillance techniques. Other areas included imaging and video capture, gimbal control, precision landing, and coordinate mapping.
The training concluded with a practical demonstration where the pilots showcased tactical maneuvers, surveillance hovering, and precision landings, earning commendation from senior officers present.
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In recognition of their performance, Major General Koughna presented wings to the graduating pilots and awarded cash prizes to outstanding participants.
The development underscores the Nigerian Army’s growing emphasis on leveraging technology to tackle evolving security challenges and enhance mission effectiveness.
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