Department of State Services (DSS) has confirmed the detention of Zainab Sodiq over an alleged violation of Nigeria’s regulations governing the acquisition and operation of drones.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Deputy Director, Public Relations and Strategic Communications, Favour Dozie, the Service said Sodiq was intercepted at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, on July 6, 2026, while travelling to Abuja with an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) without the required End User Certificate (EUC).
According to the DSS, the interception was carried out jointly by operatives of the Service and officials of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) Aviation Security (AVSEC).
The statement explained that the action was in line with extant regulations issued by the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), which place restrictions on the acquisition and use of drones in Nigeria.
The Service stated that Sodiq was stopped while attempting to board her flight to Abuja and was questioned over the drone in her possession.
“When confronted, she admitted to not being in possession of the required documents,” the statement said.
The DSS, however, noted that despite the discovery, Sodiq was permitted to travel to Abuja because of what it described as a prior engagement.
“Following due process, Sodiq was allowed to board her scheduled flight in view of a prior engagement in Abuja. She was, however, directed to report on Wednesday, 8 July, for the continuation of the investigation,” the statement added.
The agency said its investigation has commenced in accordance with existing regulations empowering it to impound drones and sanction individuals or corporate organisations operating Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS), also known as drones, without proper authorisation.
According to the DSS, the enforcement of the regulations is driven by growing security concerns surrounding the use of drones.
“This action is necessitated by global and domestic security concerns associated with operation of drones, especially issues of privacy breaches and safety of individuals,” the Service stated.
The DSS reaffirmed its commitment to carrying out its responsibilities within the confines of the law.
“To this end, the Service reaffirms its commitment to professionalism and adherence to Rule of Law,” the statement concluded.