Nigeria unveils first indigenous unmanned aerial vehicle UAV “gulma”.

President Goodluck Jonathan on Tuesday in Kaduna unveiled the country’s first indigenous unmanned aerial vehicle (drone), GULMA,designed and constructed by the Nigerian Air Force.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mr. Jonathan said that the unveiling of the vehicle marked another landmark moment in the nation’s history. He said that besides its diverse military application, the vessel would provide a range of benefits in disaster management, power line surveys and law enforcement.

Mr. Jonathan said that the vehicle would also be useful in aerial imaging/mapping, telecommunications and weather monitoring. “It is also rapidly becoming an important tool in news coverage, environmental monitoring, and oil and gas exploration.

“Considering the potential impact of its benefit and versatility, I cannot but say how proud I am of the men and women of our Armed Forces,” the president said. “Apart from their commitment to the protection of our sovereignty, they are helping to keep our nation ahead in military science and technology and to keep their civilian counterparts on their toes.

“Today, as we stand in appreciation of the gallant men and women of our Air Force,we are reminded that hardwork and diligence can break many barriers,’’ he said.

Mr. Jonathan commended the Chief of Air Staff and all officers and men of the Nigerian Air Force for the achievement, noting that it would strengthen the country. He said it would also enhance the nation’s role in peace keeping and conflict prevention. The president said he was optimistic that this stride by the Nigerian Air Force would mark a turning point for indigenous technology in every sector of the nation’s life.

“Let me assure the Air Force of the Federal Government’s support for this and all other research projects. We will encourage and assist private sector concerns to key into mass production of the project to achieve the highest and best commercial use of this prototype Unmanned Aerial Vehicle.