Drones Key to National Security and Economic Growth, Says ARCO MD

Drones are fast becoming essential tools for strengthening security, ility, and economic development in Nigeria, according to Engr. Okosubide Mozimo, Managing Director of ARCO Worldwide Services.

Mozimo made this known during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between ARCO and the National Centre for Technology Management in Abuja. The agreement is aimed at boosting innovation, research, and capacity building in drone technology across the country.

The partnership will focus on training young Nigerians in drone production, piloting, and maintenance, with applications spanning security, agriculture, oil and gas, healthcare, infrastructure, and logistics. According to Mozimo, the collaboration aligns with ARCO’s vision of leveraging technology to drive economic growth.

“We are excited to partner with NACETEM, a leading federal agency driving innovation and capacity building. This initiative will strengthen drone applications in key sectors such as defence, agriculture, logistics, and more,” he said.

Highlighting the growing global importance of drone technology, Mozimo referenced ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, noting the significant role drones now play in modern warfare. He stressed that Nigeria must build local capacity to remain competitive on the global stage.

Since pioneering commercial drone operations in Nigeria in 2016, ARCO Worldwide Services has led advancements in the sector, providing services for oil and gas operations, security, and military support, while also training local drone pilots.

Mozimo also pointed to the potential of drones in improving national security and election monitoring, suggesting their deployment along major highways to enhance response times to threats such as kidnappings.

In his remarks, Dr. Olushola Odusanya, Director General of National Centre for Technology Management, emphasized the need to translate innovation into practical economic value. He called for stronger technology ecosystems that produce commercially viable solutions and support national development.

The collaboration marks a significant step toward harnessing emerging technologies to empower young Nigerians, promote industrial growth, and strengthen the country’s technological capabilities.