REMOTE WARFARE AND FRAGILE ACCOUNTABILITY: ETHICAL AND LEGAL CHALLENGES IN NIGERIA’S DRONE COUNTERTERRORISM OPERATIONS

Abstract

In recent times, global counterterrorism efforts and strategies have been reshaped by
drones, also known as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). The security architecture of Nigeria
has witnessed a significant shift owing to the deployment and use of drones in the present fight
against Boko Haram insurgents. Understandably, the use of drones reduces risks associated with
military personnel, accentuates precision strikes and enhances surveillance; their usage, however,
is associated with some complex ethical concerns. This paper critically examines the ethical
concerns surrounding Nigeria’s drone usage and operations, focusing on accountability and
transparency, civilian protection and adherence to International Humanitarian Law (IHL); and the
broader implications of remote warfare for state legitimacy. The research design of this study is a
qualitative, doctrinal, and normative research design, and the theoretical base is anchored on the
Just War Theory, International Humanitarian Law, and Moral Responsibility in Human–AI Drone
Warfare. The study examines operational and normative challenges associated with drone warfare
and concludes that, despite the tactical advantages of Nigeria’s drone programme, it is imbued with
intelligence limitations, a lack of adequate regulations and ineffective accountability mechanisms.
The paper recommends clearer legal frameworks, institutional restructuring and more transparency,
which suggests that institutional reforms, clearer legal frameworks, and greater transparency are
vital towards ensuring that drone deployment aligns with International Humanitarian Law, global
normative standards and offers adequate protection to civilian populations.