Nigeria has unveiled its first commercial Mobile Drone Operations Command Centre (MDOC), a major step forward in protecting critical oil and gas infrastructure through advanced, locally engineered drone technology.
The system, developed in partnership between Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) and Arco Worldwide Services (AWS), was commissioned at NLNG’s Corporate Head Office in Port Harcourt. It enables real-time aerial surveillance of pipelines, allowing rapid detection of threats such as vandalism, encroachments, and unauthorized access along rights-of-way.
Housed in a customized Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van, the mobile command centre is fully climate-controlled and equipped with green energy solutions, including solar panels and inverter systems. It features a triple-monitor setup and supports the Sky Whale VTOL drone, which provides up to three hours of flight time and a 60km range for extensive coverage in remote areas.
A standout feature is the integration of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite connectivity, delivering stable, uninterrupted real-time video feeds even in isolated locations. This addresses previous challenges like lengthy daily setups (up to 90 minutes), operator fatigue, and equipment damage from repeated manual deployments.
Sunday Idajili, Chief Technical Officer at Arco Worldwide Services, explained: “This system enables real-time aerial surveillance of pipelines with uninterrupted video feeds, streamed via LEO satellite systems to ensure stability in remote areas.” He noted the drone’s role in boosting NLNG’s ability to monitor and respond to threats along its pipeline network.
The entire customization, integration, and optimization were carried out by Nigerian engineers, highlighting growing local expertise in adapting global aerospace technology to Nigeria’s specific needs.
Mrs. Ann Temidara, Chief Operating Officer of Arco Worldwide Services, said: “We are proud to launch Nigeria’s first locally integrated mobile Ground Control System. While the aerial platforms are sourced globally, the customisation and operational enhancements were done entirely by Nigerian engineers to meet our unique environmental and service demands.”
Mr. Okosubide Mozimo, Managing Director of Arco Worldwide Services, highlighted the practical benefits: “Our teams previously had to relocate and manually set up ground stations daily, a process that took up to 90 minutes and led to fatigue and wear on equipment. The MDOC eliminates these inefficiencies.”
Mr. Ekeinde Ohiwerei, NLNG’s General Manager for Corporate Services, who officiated the launch, commended the partnership: “Arco has proven to be a reliable partner, setting new industry standards. Drones are vital for infrastructure monitoring and tackling insecurity. This homegrown solution shows that investing in local talent yields world-class outcomes.”
The MDOC is now ready for deployment across NLNG facilities, enhancing security for key energy assets while advancing Nigerian Content in aviation and engineering.
The initiative demonstrates Nigeria’s increasing ability to deploy indigenous innovations to safeguard national infrastructure, minimize economic losses from pipeline sabotage, and promote sustainable technology-driven protection.
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