The Joint Task Force of the military, known as Operations Hadin Kai, has announced a ban on the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, across the states of Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa.
Air Commodore UU Idris, the Air Component Commander, issued the directive in a statement reported by Daily Trust, citing security risks related to the unauthorized use of drones in the area.
“The increasing availability of drones for both personal and commercial use has raised significant security concerns, primarily due to their potential exploitation by non-state actors and criminal groups for malicious and disruptive activities,” Idris explained.
He also expressed alarm over government agencies and private individuals operating drones without proper authorization from the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai. “It is particularly troubling that these entities are flying drones with little regard for existing operational regulations,” he noted.
Idris warned that the misuse of drones is an escalating threat, stressing that “non-state actors have become adept at employing drones against military objectives and Critical National Infrastructure (CNI), as has been observed in other regions.
Recently, there have been reports of unauthorized drone use within the theater. For example, on January 7, 2025, a drone was intercepted during a search at the helipad of an NGO flight traveling from Maiduguri to Monguno. The drone was seized, and an investigation is currently underway.”
The statement further highlighted the dangers associated with unauthorized drone operations. “These incidents underscore a trend of individuals operating drones without adherence to safety protocols and security guidelines, which can lead to serious consequences.”
Idris reaffirmed the military’s role in overseeing aerial activities in the region, stating, “The Air Component of OPERATION HADIN KAI (AC OPHK) is tasked with monitoring and regulating the operations of aerial platforms, including aircraft and drones, in the North East Theater. This is crucial for ensuring safety and security for all operators in the airspace of Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa.”
He reiterated the importance of the drone ban, emphasizing the seriousness of potential violations. “In light of this, I want to stress the ban on drone operations in the North East Theater as mandated by the Appropriate Superior Authority. It is important to note that any breaches of this ban, regardless of their perceived insignificance, will be taken very seriously. Therefore, it is essential to comply with this regulation concerning drone operations in Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa airspace for the sake of safety and security.”
