By Nkechi Ezs
The Nigerian Army 8 Division has enhanced its operational readiness with the graduation of a new cadre of drone pilots, reinforcing its adoption of advanced technology to tackle evolving security challenges in the North-West.
According to an official signed statement by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division and Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, the graduation ceremony was held at the Division Training School, Giginya Military Cantonment, marking a significant milestone in the integration of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) into operational activities.
In his address, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division and Commander, Sector 2, Joint Task Force (North West), Major General Bemgba Paul Koughna, underscored the Division’s commitment to force protection and operational preparedness. He highlighted the strategic importance of drones in enhancing reconnaissance capabilities, conserving operational resources, and minimising risks to personnel in active theatres.
Major General Koughna stressed that modern military effectiveness depends not merely on the acquisition of advanced platforms but on their seamless integration into combat systems, noting that drone technology has become indispensable in contemporary warfare. He urged the newly trained pilots to deploy their skills effectively in support of ongoing operations.
Earlier, the Course Coordinator, Captain Samuel Yakubu, described the Drone Pilots Training Initiative as a forward-looking programme introduced under the leadership of the GOC to strengthen operational capabilities. He disclosed that 27 personnel drawn from various formations within the Division’s area of responsibility underwent the intensive training.
The curriculum covered a broad spectrum of competencies, including navigation using offline mapping systems, understanding drone components, ground control station setup, aircraft assembly and disassembly, as well as takeoff and landing procedures. Trainees were also equipped with skills in surveillance operations, aerial imaging, video capture, gimbal control, and accurate coordinate acquisition.
The training programme culminated in a practical demonstration, where the graduating pilots exhibited high levels of precision, control, and tactical awareness. The exercise featured pre-flight checks, surveillance hovering, tactical manoeuvres, and precision landings, earning commendation from senior officers and commanders in attendance.
In recognition of their performance, Major General Koughna presented drone pilot wings to the graduates and awarded cash prizes to those who distinguished themselves during the course.
The 8 Division reaffirmed its commitment to leveraging technology-driven solutions to enhance operational effectiveness and maintain a decisive edge in ongoing security operations.
