Nigerian Army Pursues Drone Production Partnership with PTDF

The Nigerian Army, under the leadership of Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen Waidi Shaibu, has requested a strategic partnership with the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) to facilitate training in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology and support local drone production for security operations. This request was made during a visit to PTDF Executive Secretary Prof Shuaibu Aliyu at the Fund’s headquarters in Abuja.

Lt Gen Shaibu emphasized the need for indigenous expertise in drone design, production, operation, and maintenance to combat terrorism, insurgency, and banditry in Nigeria. He noted that the partnership would reduce the number of military personnel sent abroad for specialized training and help cultivate a skilled workforce to support local UAV companies.

Additionally, he sought PTDF's assistance in upgrading Nigerian Army command secondary schools, highlighting the importance of education for military personnel and their families. Prof Aliyu responded positively, indicating PTDF's readiness to enhance its collaboration with the military in education and technology.