Volatus Aerospace and ARCO Launch Certified Drone Training in Nigeria

Volatus Aerospace and ARCO Worldwide Services: Elevating Drone Training in Nigeria

The evolution of Drones technology is reshaping industries across the globe, and West Africa is no exception. In a move poised to accelerate the professionalization of Nigeria’s drone sector, Volatus Aerospace Inc., a Canadian leader in drone solutions, has entered into a landmark Partnerships with ARCO Worldwide Services Limited (AWS), a subsidiary of Nigeria’s ARCO Group Plc. Their collaboration aims to deliver world-class, certified drone training through the NCAA-approved ARCO Aviation Academy (AAA) in Nigeria.

This initiative arrives at a crucial time, as Nigeria’s drone market expands rapidly, driven by applications in energy, agriculture, and security. The partnership is designed not only to align local training with international standards but also to address the growing demand for skilled drone professionals in the region. By combining Volatus’s comprehensive curriculum with ARCO’s local expertise, the alliance seeks to position Nigeria as a hub for drone excellence in West Africa.

Understanding the significance of this partnership requires a closer look at the context, the organizations involved, and the broader implications for Nigeria’s technology sector and workforce development.

Strategic Partnership: Structure and Objectives

Terms of the Collaboration

The agreement between Volatus Aerospace and ARCO Worldwide Services is formalized through a three-year Memorandum of Understanding. Volatus Aerospace will supply its Volatus Academy curriculum, training materials, and instructor development programs. In turn, ARCO Aviation Academy will deliver the Training locally, under a co-branded framework that leverages both organizations’ strengths.

One of the partnership’s core objectives is to ensure that all training programs adhere to international Standards, including those set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the Specific Operations Risk Assessment (SORA) framework. Importantly, the courses will be fully compliant with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (FAA) regulations, ensuring that graduates receive certifications recognized both locally and abroad.

The first training cohorts are scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2025, marking the start of a new era for drone education in Nigeria. This timeline reflects a coordinated effort to develop a sustainable pipeline of certified drone pilots and operators.

“This collaboration marks an important milestone in our mission to expand safe, professional drone operations worldwide. By partnering with ARCO Aviation Academy, we’re helping to accelerate local workforce development and strengthen Nigeria’s position as a leader in the West African drone industry.” — Glen Lynch, CEO of Volatus Aerospace Inc.

Profiles of the Partners

Volatus Aerospace Inc. is a Canadian public company specializing in integrated drone solutions, including services, equipment distribution, and training. With a strong presence in North America and the UK, Volatus is recognized for its focus on safety, regulatory compliance, and innovation in both manned and unmanned aviation sectors.

ARCO Worldwide Services Limited, part of ARCO Group Plc, brings over four decades of experience in Nigeria’s industrial and energy sectors. AWS has developed a reputation for delivering innovative security and drone solutions, and is licensed for commercial drone operations by both the NCAA and the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA). Its ARCO Aviation Academy is an NCAA-approved training organization, providing a solid foundation for the partnership’s training initiatives.

This collaboration leverages Volatus’s global expertise and ARCO’s deep local knowledge, creating a synergy that is expected to set new benchmarks for drone training and operational standards in the region.

The Nigerian Drone Market: Trends and Opportunities

Sectoral Growth and Adoption

Nigeria’s drone industry has experienced notable growth in recent years, spurred by increasing adoption across key sectors. In the utilities and energy sector, drones are commonly used for inspecting critical infrastructure such as pipelines, power lines, and transmission towers. These applications enhance operational efficiency and safety, reducing the risks associated with manual inspections.

In agriculture, drone technology is being harnessed for precision farming, helping farmers monitor crop health, manage resources more effectively, and boost yields. According to available market assessments, the Nigerian digital agriculture drones market is valued at approximately USD 150 million, reflecting significant investment and innovation in this area.

Security and surveillance represent another major area of demand. Drones are increasingly deployed for monitoring critical sites, supporting disaster response, and enhancing public safety. These applications are particularly relevant in a country facing diverse security challenges and a need for rapid, data-driven decision-making.

“This partnership brings globally recognized drone training programs to Nigeria for the first time. Together with Volatus, we will empower a new generation of certified drone professionals and enhance safety, compliance, and innovation across the sector.” — Okosubide Mozimo, Managing Director, ARCO Worldwide Services

Regulatory Landscape and Compliance

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has been proactive in developing a regulatory framework that supports the safe and sustainable growth of drone technology. The NCAA’s adoption of a risk-based oversight model, aligned with international standards, aims to balance innovation with safety and security concerns.

In May 2025, Captain Chris Najomo, Director General of the NCAA, underscored the importance of robust regulation for the sector’s future. By ensuring that drone operations meet stringent safety and compliance requirements, the NCAA is positioning Nigeria as a responsible and forward-looking participant in the global drone ecosystem.

Compliance with these regulations is a central feature of the Volatus-ARCO partnership, ensuring that graduates of the training programs are well-prepared to operate within both local and international legal frameworks.

Advanced Training and Industry Impact

Specialized Curriculum and Workforce Development

Beyond foundational drone piloting skills, the new training programs will offer advanced modules in areas such as thermography, LiDAR, and Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations. These skills are increasingly in demand across industrial, defense, and public safety sectors, where complex missions and data collection capabilities are essential.

The focus on specialized training reflects broader industry trends, where drone pilots are expected to possess not only technical proficiency but also a deep understanding of sector-specific applications. By equipping Nigerian trainees with these competencies, the partnership aims to foster a new generation of highly skilled professionals capable of driving innovation and operational excellence.

This approach also supports workforce development, offering new career pathways in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. As demand for certified drone operators grows, so too does the potential for job creation and skills transfer within the Nigerian economy.

Broader Implications for West Africa

The Volatus-ARCO partnership is not just a milestone for Nigeria but also a potential catalyst for the broader West African region. By setting high standards for training and compliance, the initiative could serve as a model for neighboring countries seeking to develop their own drone industries.

Regional collaboration and knowledge sharing may follow, fostering a more integrated and competitive drone ecosystem across West Africa. This, in turn, could attract further investment, spur innovation, and enhance the region’s capacity to address challenges in sectors such as agriculture, energy, and public safety.

Ultimately, the partnership underscores the importance of international cooperation in advancing technology adoption and workforce development in emerging markets.

Conclusion

The partnership between Volatus Aerospace and ARCO Worldwide Services marks a significant step forward for Nigeria’s drone industry. By combining global expertise with local insight, the initiative promises to deliver world-class training, align with international standards, and meet the growing demand for certified drone professionals.

Looking ahead, the collaboration has the potential to shape the future of drone operations in Nigeria and beyond. As the industry evolves, continued investment in education, compliance, and innovation will be key to unlocking the full benefits of drone technology for society and the economy.

FAQ

What is the main goal of the Volatus-ARCO partnership?
The primary objective is to deliver internationally recognized drone training programs in Nigeria, equipping local professionals with the skills and certifications needed for safe and compliant drone operations.

Who will benefit from the new drone training programs?
The training is designed for aspiring and existing drone pilots, as well as professionals from sectors such as energy, agriculture, security, and public safety.

When will the training programs begin?
The first training cohorts are expected to launch in the fourth quarter of 2025.

Will the certifications be recognized internationally?
Yes, the training will adhere to both international (ICAO, SORA) and Nigerian (NCAA) standards, ensuring broad recognition of the qualifications.

Sources

Volatus Aerospace Inc. | finance.yahoo.com