By Seyi Odewale
ARCO Aviation Academy has graduated five Nigerian Navy personnel from its sixth drone training cohort as part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s maritime security and aerial surveillance operations.
The graduation ceremony, held in Lagos, underscored the growing partnership between the Nigerian Navy and the NCAA-certified aviation institution in building operational capacity in unmanned aerial systems and intelligence-driven security operations.
ARCO said the officers underwent intensive practical and mission-oriented training in drone operations, surveillance technology and unmanned aerial system protocols under the supervision of experienced aviation and defence experts.
The academy noted that the programme was designed to equip naval personnel with the technical expertise required for modern intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance operations.
According to the institution, the graduating officers were assessed through a rigorous check ride conducted by officials of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, including Capt. Raphael Akinsete, Engr. Ebitie Charles and SFO O. Kukoyi.
“The successful completion of this evaluation reaffirms the Academy’s commitment to producing drone operators who meet the highest safety and operational benchmarks set by Nigeria’s aviation regulatory authority,” ARCO stated.
The academy described the completion of six consecutive cohorts as a major milestone that further validates its position as a leader in specialised military drone training.
“Unmanned aerial systems are no longer peripheral tools in modern warfare and maritime security — they are central to it. From coastal surveillance to intelligence gathering and rapid response, drones are redefining how naval forces operate,” the academy said.
ARCO added that it was exploring opportunities to expand the programme with advanced-level modules covering counter-drone systems, advanced drone operations and AI-integrated surveillance training.
The institution also expressed readiness to extend similar partnerships to other branches of the Nigerian armed forces as demand for specialised drone operations continues to grow.
Congratulating the graduating officers, the academy said their dedication throughout the programme reflected “the finest values of the Nigerian Navy” and demonstrated the military’s commitment to strengthening national security capabilities.
ARCO Aviation Academy is an NCAA-licensed institution focused on aviation and drone training for commercial operators, corporate organisations and government agencies.
