Babcock University and New Horizons Nigeria have deployed an Artificial Intelligence-powered drone surveillance system aimed at strengthening campus security and expanding practical technology education for students.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the initiative is designed to improve security while equipping students with skills in drone technology, robotics and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Speaking during the unveiling of the AI-powered drones at Babcock University, the Managing Director of New Horizons, an ICT training and examination institute, Mr. Tim Akano, said worsening insecurity across the country requires proactive and technology-driven responses from institutions.
According to Akano, incidents such as kidnappings and other security breaches indicate that criminals often monitor communities before carrying out attacks, making aerial surveillance essential for early detection and prevention.
He described insecurity as Nigeria’s biggest challenge, stressing that educational institutions and other organisations must stay ahead of criminal elements through continuous innovation.
“Security is a moving target. The criminals keep innovating and inventing new ways to commit crime. Institutions must also stay two steps ahead of them,” he said.
Akano explained that the partnership goes beyond the donation of drones, focusing instead on transferring technical expertise, operational capacity and intelligence-gathering capabilities.
He noted that the drones can monitor forests surrounding the university, operate both day and night and provide real-time intelligence to security agencies.
According to him, suspicious activities can be identified long before attacks occur, enabling prompt responses and helping to prevent potential threats.
“Babcock is not a security organisation. What we are giving is intelligence, and intelligence is everybody’s responsibility,” he said.
Akano further stated that New Horizons would train selected university personnel to operate, maintain and repair the equipment before transferring complete ownership to the institution.
He added that the collaboration would introduce drone technology, robotics and artificial intelligence into Babcock University’s academic programmes beginning from the 2027 academic session.
Students, he said, would start by assembling basic drones using 3D printers before progressing to commercial applications in areas such as agriculture, logistics, surveillance and other industries.
The university will also introduce AI-powered humanoid robots to expose students to automation and intelligent technologies that are transforming workplaces globally.
Akano explained that the robots would be capable of carrying out tasks including customer service, warehouse operations, teaching demonstrations and other programmable activities.
“We are not just giving drones to Babcock. We are transferring the knowledge to build, operate, maintain and eventually produce them here,” he said.
He noted that the initiative would position Nigerian students as technology creators rather than consumers while promoting local innovation and manufacturing.
The Vice-Chancellor of Babcock University, Prof. Afolarin Ojewole, described the initiative as another milestone in the institution’s efforts to remain a technology-driven university.
Ojewole said the university had embraced innovation since partnering with New Horizons more than two decades ago and would continue investing in emerging technologies.
He stated that the drone surveillance system would complement existing security infrastructure, including CCTV cameras and emergency alarm systems already deployed across the campus.
According to him, the university plans to deploy additional drones to ensure continuous surveillance while maintaining close collaboration with security agencies to protect both the campus and neighbouring communities.
“If something happens, Babcock can get its drone in the air, see in real time and provide intelligence to security agencies. We are serious about security,” he said.
Ojewole further revealed that drone technology training would be extended beyond computer science and engineering programmes to students across all disciplines.
He stressed that graduates should leave the university not only with academic qualifications but also with practical skills that enhance employability and entrepreneurial opportunities.
“Whether you study arts, humanities or computer science, one of the skills we will offer is drone technology. We want graduates who know a little of everything and a lot about one thing,” he said.
The vice-chancellor added that Babcock University would continue serving as a platform for testing emerging technologies through partnerships that support innovation and national development.
He reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to becoming an AI-driven university while preparing students for the rapidly evolving digital economy.
The event featured the commissioning and demonstration of the drone surveillance system, with the training of university personnel expected to commence immediately.
About The Author
