The Oyo State Government has announced the arrival of two newly acquired surveillance aircraft, a significant boost to its ongoing efforts to enhance security and intelligence gathering across the state.
In a statement, Commissioner for Information Dotun Oyelade described the delivery as a crucial milestone in the state’s commitment to strengthening aerial surveillance and supporting security agencies in combating crime.
Oyelade recalled that the state government had announced on July 8, 2025, the acquisition of the aircraft to bolster the operational capacity of security agencies to address emerging security threats. He further disclosed that Governor Seyi Makinde confirmed the aircraft’s arrival in Nigeria on July 18, 2026, with reassembly taking place at the Nigerian Air Force hangar in Lagos ahead of their final deployment to Oyo State.
The commissioner noted that the administration had assured residents of the aircraft’s arrival before the end of July—a promise now fulfilled. He emphasized that the aircraft would assist various security formations, including the Amotekun Corps, by providing enhanced surveillance, intelligence gathering, and rapid-response capabilities.
Governor Makinde personally received the aircraft at the airport, stating that the investment was a strategic step to complement security personnel on the ground, given Oyo State’s vast territory and the need for swift aerial intelligence. “When we decided to purchase these surveillance aircraft, it was to complement the boots on the ground, considering the state’s size and security demands,” he said.
Makinde also referenced the recent abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area as an example of unforeseen challenges that underscored the need for such investments. “Although we could not predict these incidents, our preparation has proven valuable in covering the state efficiently,” he noted.
The governor affirmed that the aircraft would become operational immediately, thanks to a partnership with the Nigerian Air Force. “We’re hitting the ground running. The aircraft were piloted by Air Force personnel, and we have a Memorandum of Understanding in place to ensure close collaboration,” Makinde explained.
The acquisition comes in the wake of the May 15, 2026 abduction in Oriire, where gunmen kidnapped dozens of pupils, teachers, and residents from three schools. After 56 days in captivity, all surviving victims were eventually rescued in a coordinated operation involving the Nigerian Armed Forces, Police, and the Department of State Services.
Governor Makinde reiterated that security remains a top priority for his administration, emphasizing that a safe environment is essential for progress. “Now, our children and teachers are back, and we can focus on moving forward with our plans for the state,” he said.
