Starwing Aviation secures certification as RPAS operator, boosting Nigeria’s drone sector
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has formally certified Starwing Aviation Limited as a Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) operator, marking a major step forward in the country’s efforts to become a hub for drone operations across Africa.
The certification, granted following a rigorous assessment process, was officially presented to Starwing Aviation by the Director General of Civil Aviation, Captain Chris Najomo, at a ceremony held on 3 June 2025 at NCAA headquarters in Abuja.
The event was attended by senior officials from the authority, aviation stakeholders, and representatives of Starwing Aviation.
Captain Najomo, in his address, described the achievement as a milestone for both the company and Nigeria’s broader aviation landscape.
He commended Starwing for meeting the high regulatory standards required for RPAS certification but underscored the importance of ongoing regulatory adherence.
“This certificate is not a final destination. It is a starting point. Sustained compliance is crucial for retaining this status and ensuring continued safety in our airspace,” Captain Najomo said.
The Director of Aerodrome and Airspace Standards, Engineer Godwin Balang, explained that the RPAS Operations Certificate (ROC) was issued only after comprehensive scrutiny of the company’s operational, safety, and security protocols.
“We examined every component of their operation, from equipment safety to security protocols and operational readiness,” Balang said.
“Particular attention was given to airspace integration, collision avoidance, and even bird strike prevention. Everything was benchmarked against international aviation standards.”
With the ROC, Starwing Aviation is now officially licensed to conduct commercial drone operations within Nigeria under the close supervision of the NCAA.
The certification reflects Nigeria’s advancing capacity to regulate and manage unmanned aerial systems (UAS), an area poised to transform sectors such as agriculture, logistics, surveillance, and emergency response.
Aviation expert and former Director General of NCAA, Dr Harold Demuren, welcomed the development as a critical advancement in the country’s aviation journey.
“This is a defining moment. The RPAS certification signals the emergence of a new aviation frontier. Nigeria is well-positioned to lead drone operations and innovation across the continent,” Dr Demuren remarked.
Kunmi Demuren, Managing Director of Starwing Aviation, expressed gratitude to the NCAA for its guidance and professionalism throughout the licensing process.
He acknowledged the pivotal role played by the authority’s licensing department and pledged full compliance with all regulatory obligations.
“We appreciate the leadership of Captain Najomo and the dedication of Engineer Balang and the entire NCAA team,” Mr Demuren said.
“Starwing Aviation is committed to upholding every standard laid down. This is a responsibility we take seriously.”
The certification comes at a time when drone technology is being rapidly adopted for commercial and governmental use. The NCAA’s move is expected to stimulate innovation, encourage investment, and pave the way for more licensed drone operators in Nigeria.
Industry analysts believe the RPAS sector has the potential to significantly contribute to Nigeria’s economy, provided that safety, airspace coordination, and regulatory enforcement remain priorities.
As the NCAA continues to expand its oversight and encourage responsible drone usage, stakeholders agree that Nigeria is making substantial progress toward becoming a regional leader in unmanned aviation.
