Regulatory Snapshot Nigeria

Overview

Nigeria’s agricultural drone sector is rapidly expanding under a growing digital agriculture agenda. Regulation of pesticide use and drone operations is split between aviation, health, and agriculture authorities, emphasizing safety, environmental protection, and responsible application. 
 

Regulatory Authorities

• Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA): Regulates all unmanned aircraft systems under the NCAA RPAS Regulations (2019).
• National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC): Regulates pesticide and agrochemical registration and importation under the NAFDAC Act (Cap N1 LFN 2004).
• Federal Ministry of Agriculture & Rural Development (FMARD): Oversees national policy on agricultural inputs and sustainable pest management.

Drone-Specific Guidelines

• Drone spraying is permitted under controlled conditions by licensed RPAS operators and with registered products approved by NAFDAC.
• UAV operators must comply with NCAA operational requirements, including maintaining altitude, separation, and safety distances from populated areas.

• NAFDAC encourages drone integration to reduce manual exposure and improve precision but stresses strict adherence to product labels and environmental precautions.
   

   

  Useful links

Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority - RPAS Regulation

NAFDAC - Agrochemical & Pesticide Regulation

Federal Ministry of Agriculture & Rural Development

CropLife Nigeria