Human rights activist and presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, has advocated the deployment of a technology-driven drone defence system as part of efforts to confront Nigeria’s growing security challenges.
Sowore made the proposal in a statement shared on his official X account, where he argued that modern technology should become the backbone of Nigeria’s defence and security architecture.
According to him, an AAC-led administration would prioritise advanced drone operations and real-time surveillance systems instead of what he described as the outdated bureaucratic structure currently dominating the country’s security framework.
“Yes, my ‘Defence Minister’ will be a drone,” Sowore stated.
“Not a bureaucrat sitting in an air-conditioned office writing reports and receiving courtesy callers while insecurity spreads across the country.”
The former presidential candidate explained that the proposed drone-based system would be designed to strengthen Nigeria’s territorial defence, improve border surveillance and support the fight against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes.
He noted that the technology would provide security agencies with continuous monitoring capabilities, intelligence gathering tools and faster response mechanisms during security operations.
According to Sowore, drones could also support search-and-rescue operations and provide operational assistance to troops deployed in difficult terrains and remote areas.
“These systems will provide continuous surveillance, rapid response capabilities, intelligence gathering, search-and-rescue support, and logistical assistance,” he said.
He further stated that drones could be used to transport food supplies, medical materials, communication gadgets and operational equipment to security personnel in conflict zones, thereby improving efficiency and reducing delays in military operations.
“They can deliver food, medical supplies, equipment, and communications support to troops wherever they are deployed, reducing delays and increasing operational efficiency/effectiveness,” Sowore added.
The AAC leader maintained that the future of national security lies in technological innovation, efficiency and accountability rather than bureaucracy and corruption.
“The future of national security lies in technology, efficiency, accountability, and precision, not endless bureaucracy, corruption, and excuses,” he said.
Sowore also called for the adoption of modern security tools capable of strengthening border protection and improving public safety, while stressing that all security operations must remain subject to civilian oversight and the rule of law.
“Nigeria must embrace modern tools to protect its people, secure its borders, and support the men and women tasked with defending the nation, while ensuring that all security operations remain subject to the rule of law and appropriate civilian oversight. The future is innovation,” he stated.
