Nigeria’s security forces have witnessed a surge in drone-assisted attacks, with at least 12 recorded incidents between January and March 2025, targeting military convoys and bases, an expert in defence technology and aerospace security, Dr. Bright Echefu has said.
Echefu, who is the Chairman of Breich Unmanned Aerial Systems Limited (UAS), a subsidiary of EIB STRATOC, also warned that Nigeria’s security forces risk continued exposure to aerial threats unless its armed forces upgrade their drone warfare capabilities.
He stated this during the unveiling of new Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and locally manufactured bombs developed by the firm in Abuja on Wednesday.
The UAVs are attack drones with an endurance of 14 hours and a telemetry range of 200 km.
This is as the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, described the advancement in indigenous drone technology as a timely intervention in the nation’s security strategy.
Echefu noted that insurgent groups such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State’s West Africa Province (ISWAP) have intensified drone-assisted attacks, with at least 12 recorded incidents between January and March 2025.
According to him, these attacks have targeted military convoys and bases, resulting in casualties and operational disruptions.
He said the new UAVs, designed specifically for the Nigerian military, aim to address the limitations of existing systems.
Stressing the potential of the equipment to enhance intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities, Echefu said the tools would also improve force protection, and reduce troop casualties by minimising reliance on manned reconnaissance missions.
He said: “The ability of non-state actors to exploit drone technology for offensive operations underscores the need for the Nigerian Army to counter this emerging threat with more advanced UAVs,” Echefu stated.
“By adopting Breich UAS drones, the Nigerian Armed Forces will gain a decisive edge in counterinsurgency and counterterrorism operations,”
On his part, the CDS who commended the engineers and workforce of Breich UAS for their commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s defence sector, noted that as security threats become increasingly complex and asymmetric, the force multipliers would enhance the operational effectiveness of the military.
He also stressed the importance of safeguarding these critical assets from adversarial interference, calling for the use of secure satellite communication channels and cost-effective subscription models to ensure sustainability.
Musa said: “With a telemetry range of 200 kilometres, these drones provide a significant advantage in supporting ground and maritime operations. They will enhance institutional awareness and combat effectiveness, giving troops the confidence to manoeuvre safely.”
The CDS urged the Defence Industry Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) to collaborate with Breich UAS in scaling up production to meet operational demands.
“As we celebrate this milestone, we must also ensure that these technologies do not fall into the wrong hands. Operational security must be our top priority,” he added.
Speaking, Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, said there is a need to reverse past policy failures that allowed non-state actors to acquire sophisticated weapons.
He noted that the combination of air and ground security would ensure that farmers in Plateau State can safely return to their farmlands.
