DRONES IN WARFARE: NIGERIA'S ADOPTION OF TECHNOLOGY IN FIGHTING INSECURITY

Rapid technological advancements have driven the increasing complexity of warfare, positioning unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), or drones, at the forefront of military operations globally. This study examines Nigeria's adoption of drone technology in its fight against insurgencies, banditry, and communal violence. As part of its evolving security strategy, Nigeria has integrated drones into its military operations to enhance intelligence gathering, surveillance, and precision strikes. Despite the operational benefits, the use of drones raises ethical concerns, especially related to civilian casualties, and poses challenges due to limited transparency and regulatory oversight. The study employed a systematic literature review (SLR), drawing on secondary data sources and reports that address the role, effectiveness, and challenges of drones in Nigeria's defense strategies. Key findings highlight that Nigeria's military, particularly the Air Force, has successfully deployed both indigenous and foreign-acquired drones, such as the Amebo, Gulma, and Chinese CH-4, to bolster its intelligence and combat operations. However, the lack of a robust legal framework and the need for improved training and data processing infrastructure hinder the full realization of drone technology's potential. Based on the findings, the study recommends enhancing Nigeria's regulatory framework to ensure ethical drone deployment, investing in indigenous UAV development, and improving inter-agency coordination for more efficient use of drone capabilities. These steps are crucial to ensuring that drones can effectively contribute to Nigeria's national security while minimizing the associated risks.