ARCO Worldwide Services Limited (AWS), one of Nigeria’s commercial drone operations pioneers, has secured a Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA)’s certificate to run the ARCO Aviation Academy (AAA).
With this development, AAA became Nigeria’s first Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA)-certified Approved Aviation Organisation (AAO) dedicated solely to drone pilot training.
This is coming amid NCAA’s increased drone regulation as the new frontier in aviation development.
The Managing Director of AWS, Engr Okosubide Mozimo, who received the certificate from the Director General of NCAA, Capt. Chris Najomo, in Abuja, on Wednesday, said, “The milestone positions AWS at the forefront of capacity building in the unmanned aviation sector.
“With the establishment of AAA, AWS reinforces its commitment to advancing industry standards, safety, and innovation in Nigeria’s drone ecosystem.”
On capital flight, the MD said, “There was a time we spent between $20,000 and $25,000 per pilot for training overseas, in the US, Dubai, South Africa. That meant dealing with forex instability, visa delays, and logistics.
“With this certification, all of that will now be done here in Nigeria, in naira. This is a big win, for our company, for the economy, and for the youth.”
Engr Mozimo highlighted the economic impact of the academy, noting that over 51 pilots had been trained abroad and that with the academy in Port-Harcourt, it would be a great opportunity for Nigerian youths who want to venture into drone technology.
The Director General of Civil Aviation, Capt. Chris Najomo, said he was elated at the determination of the AWS and for remaining committed to the development of the sub-sector in the country.
Najomo pledged the support of the NCAA to AAA which he described as a model for the training of drone pilots in the country.
He said drones are the way to go, given the critical roles they now play in many areas of human activity.
Capt. Najomo said, “This is a new beginning and a pioneering step. You’ve gone through a lot. The certificate we’re giving you is not just a recognition; it’s a call to maintain high standards.
“This is the first time something like this is happening, and you are leading the way. The drone is the future, and this innovation is not only timely, it is well worth every naira spent.”
