Middle East Conflict Raises Urgency of Drone Technology for Nigeria
Managing Director of ARCO Worldwide Services Limited, Okosubide Mozimo, has stated that the ongoing Middle East conflict underscores the urgent necessity for Nigeria to adopt and deploy drone technology to strengthen national security and drive economic growth. Speaking at the weekend in Abuja during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between ARCO and the National Centre for Technology Management (NACETEM), Mozimo warned that modern conflicts, such as the ongoing hostilities between Israel and Iran, have demonstrated that drones are now central to military operations.
Collaborative Efforts for Drone Innovation
The pact, signed by Mozimo on behalf of ARCO and the Director-General of NACETEM, Dr Olushola Odusanya, aims to foster collaboration in research, capacity-building, and innovation in drone technology. It also seeks to train young Nigerians in the production, piloting, and maintenance of drones for sectors including security, agriculture, oil and gas, healthcare, and infrastructure monitoring. Mozimo emphasized that drones have become very important and applicable in many areas, serving as a major job-creating innovation.
Critical Role in Modern Warfare
The ARCO boss noted that the ongoing war between America, Israel, and Iran has clearly shown how critical drones have become in modern warfare, and that Nigeria could not afford to ignore the technology. He stressed that adopting drone tech is essential for staying competitive and secure in today's global landscape.
Driving Economic Impact Through Innovation
On his part, Odusanya said his organisation was prepared to see innovations in science and technology translate into tangible commercial products in the country, thereby impacting the Nigerian economy. He noted, however, that innovation thrives only when ecosystems have been built and they utilize commercial products effectively.
