Drone Laws in Nigeria

Last updated on April 15th, 2023 at 06:07 pm

Agencies Responsible for regulating drones in the Federal Republic of Nigeria

Drone Regulator in Nigeria: Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA)

Guidelines for Drone Operations Provided by Regulator: GUIDELINES FOR THE OPERATIONS OF REMOTELY PILOTED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS / UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLE (RPAS/UAV) IN NIGERIA

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UAS Laws – General rules for flying drones in Nigeria

The Nigerian agency responsible for drone safety, NCAA, has provided several internet-accessible details on flying drones for fun or work. The highlights are enumerated below. For more details, go to the link above.

Are drones allowed in Nigeria?

According to NCAA, drones are allowed in Nigeria, subject to NCAA regulations. Read on for details.

Here are the most important rules to know for flying a drone in Nigeria:

Here is a summary table provided by the NCAA of prerequisites for using an unmanned aircraft in Nigeria:

• Without first obtaining the necessary authorizations, it is illegal to operate a drone. Before conducting any drone flight within Nigeria, flight plans must be submitted to the NCAA for approval. 
• The NCAA requires the registration of drones weighing more than 250 grams (0.55 pounds). 
• Before flying a drone in Nigeria, operators must obtain a Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems Certificate. 
• All drone operators must be at least sixteen (16) years of age. 
• Drones may not be operated recklessly or in any other way that could endanger people, property, or other aircraft. 
• Do not fly from or into another state. 
• Do not operate over the high seas without proper authorization from Air Traffic Control.

Note for foreign drone operators

Foreign drone pilots will be issued a “Recognition of Ownership,” which must carry on all drone flights. You risk a fine or up to three years in prison if you do not register. 

While your home country’s drone license may be accepted, submitting it with an English translation is best.

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Notes for recreational drone pilots flying for fun in Nigeria

All drones weighing 250 grams to 25 kilograms must be registered in Nigeria. Hobby pilots can register their drones online. 

Before flying your RPA outside, register it if it weighs more than 250 grams (0.55 lb.) but less than 25 kg (55 lb). 

Your registration number should be visible on your RPA.

You must be:

• At least sixteen (16) years of age (if the owner is less than 16 years of age, a person 16 years of age or older must register the unmanned aircraft) 
• Foreign nationals visiting Nigeria must register their RPA upon arrival. The online registration process serves as proof of ownership.

To Register, You’ll Need the following:

• Valid email address 
• Card of credit or debit 
• Addresses, both physical and postal (if different from physical address) 
• Registration is free and valid for one year. 
• RPA that weighs less than 25 kg (55 lbs.) but more than 250 grams must be registered (0.55 lbs.) online 
• By paper, register RPA that weighs more than 25 kg (55 lbs.).

Safety Guidelines:

• Fly at a height of 400 feet or less 
• Keep an eye on your RPA. 
• Never fly close to other aircraft, particularly near airports. 
• Never fly over a crowd. 
• Never take a flight over a stadium or a sporting event. 
• Never fly near disaster relief efforts, such as fires. 
• Never fly while intoxicated. 
• Bear in mind the requirements for airspace.

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Notes for operating Commercial Drone Services in Nigeria

Commercial pilots must apply directly to the Nigerian Aviation Authority for a permit.

Pilot Requirements:

At least 18 years of age 

Must go through the National Security Advisor’s vetting process (NSA) 

To satisfy this requirement, complete the Part 21 online training course available at www.rpasacademy.ng. 

Must pass an initial aeronautical knowledge examination administered by an NCAA-accredited knowledge testing facility. For additional information, see Remote Pilot License.

Aircraft Requirements:

• Less than 25 kilograms (55 lbs.) 
• Class G airspace must be registered. 
• Must maintain visual contact with the aircraft (visual line-of-sight) 
• Must fly at less than 400 feet 
• Must fly during daylight hours 
• Must fly at a speed of fewer than 100 miles per hour 
• Must give way to crewed aircraft 
• Do not fly over people
• Do not fly from a moving vehicle
• Beyond line-of-sight is not permitted without NCAA approval.

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Useful published information on flying drones in Nigeria

Here is a sample of what you might expect if you follow the drone laws and fly in Nigeria…

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NOTE: Small Unmanned Aerial Systems (SUAS), Small UAS, Remote Piloted Aerial Systems (RPAS), unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), Unmanned Aerial System (UAS), and drone are interchangeable terms unless specified. Model Aircraft, toy, remote-controlled, and RC aircraft may be covered by the same regulations unless specified.

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Traveling with a Drone?

Click here to read our Comprehensive Guide For Traveling With A Drone.

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