Nigerian drone specialist, Great Olunusi, expands use of aerial tech across multiple fields

As drone technology continues to gain relevance across industries, Nigerian drone specialist Great Olunusi is contributing to the growing application of aerial systems in construction monitoring, agricultural surveillance, and digital media production.

Across many parts of Nigeria, sectors such as construction and agriculture still rely heavily on manual monitoring systems that are often time-consuming, labour-intensive, and limited in spatial coverage. As infrastructure projects expand and operational environments become more complex, the demand for faster and more precise data collection methods has continued to increase. This growing gap has contributed to rising interest in drone-based technologies capable of improving real-time visibility, environmental assessment, and operational coordination.

With experience spanning field deployment, aerial imaging, and technical drone operations, Olunusi represents a growing group of Nigerian professionals applying unmanned aerial technology to practical industry challenges. According to industry observers, his work reflects the increasing integration of geospatial intelligence and drone systems into sectors where monitoring, precision, and real-time data are becoming essential.

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Speaking on the growing relevance of drone systems in Nigeria, Olunusi said aerial technology is gradually transforming how industries gather information and manage operations.

“Drone technology is no longer limited to photography or recreation. It is becoming a critical operational tool for industries that require accurate monitoring, fast decision-making, and improved visibility across complex environments,” he said.

In construction and property development, drone technology is increasingly being adopted to improve project oversight and site analysis. Through aerial mapping and imaging, project teams are able to monitor site conditions, track progress, and improve planning efficiency, particularly across large or difficult terrains. Olunusi’s work within this space focuses on supporting more technology-driven project environments through aerial monitoring and data-supported visibility.

According to Olunusi, the construction sector stands to benefit significantly from aerial mapping and drone-assisted inspections.

“With drone-generated data, construction teams can reduce delays, improve accountability, and make more informed decisions during project execution. The ability to monitor large sites in real time changes the speed and quality of operational coordination,” he noted.

One of the practical applications of his work involves drone-assisted stockpile measurement and material assessment. By using aerial surveys to generate volumetric estimates, construction operators are able to improve material accountability and reduce inaccuracies associated with manual estimation methods. The use of drone-generated data also contributes to better coordination and operational visibility during project execution.

Beyond construction, Olunusi has contributed to agricultural and security-related drone operations connected to large-scale farm environments in Nigeria, including aerial surveillance initiatives designed to improve monitoring and operational response across agricultural estates. His work has involved drone deployment support, aerial monitoring, and field-based surveillance operations aimed at improving visibility across difficult terrains and large operational zones.

Commenting on the role of drones in agriculture and security operations, Olunusi explained that aerial systems provide faster environmental assessment and broader terrain coverage than traditional methods.

“In sectors like agriculture and rural security, drones help operators respond more efficiently by providing live aerial intelligence and wider monitoring capability, especially in locations that are difficult to access physically,” he stated.

His growing involvement in drone technology has also extended into Nigeria’s film industry, where he has served as a credited drone pilot on cinema-distributed and award-winning productions. As aerial cinematography becomes increasingly integrated into modern filmmaking, drone systems are playing a larger role in visual storytelling and production quality within Nollywood.

Olunusi said the creative industry has also embraced drone innovation because of its ability to improve cinematic storytelling and production value.

“Aerial cinematography has opened up new creative possibilities in filmmaking. Drones allow filmmakers to achieve dynamic visuals that were previously difficult or expensive to produce,” he added.

Currently pursuing further academic training in construction-related management and engineering systems through a UK-affiliated programme, Olunusi remains focused on advancing the practical applications of aerial technology across industries that require precision monitoring, environmental awareness, and real-time operational intelligence.

As industries continue to adopt technology-driven systems, the role of drone specialists within construction, agriculture, security, and media production is expected to expand significantly. Through multidisciplinary applications of aerial technology, Great Olunusi is contributing to the broader transition toward more digitally integrated operational systems in Nigeria.