Oyo State has taken a major step in strengthening its security operations as Governor Seyi Makinde officially received two surveillance aircraft acquired to improve intelligence gathering and support security agencies across the state.
The aircraft arrived at the Ibadan Airport on Tuesday, nearly a year after the state government announced plans to purchase them as part of a broader strategy to combat crime and enhance rapid security response across Oyo’s expansive territory.
Speaking after the aircraft landed, Governor Makinde said the investment was driven by the need to complement security personnel on the ground with aerial intelligence. According to him, Oyo’s large landmass makes air surveillance essential for effective monitoring and timely response to security threats.
“When we decided to purchase these surveillance aircraft, it was because of the sheer size of our state. We knew we had to complement the boots on the ground,” the governor said.
Makinde noted that although the government could not have predicted the security challenges that later emerged, including the abduction of students and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area earlier this year, the decision had proved to be timely. He added that the arrival of the aircraft fulfilled a commitment his administration made despite public criticism over the delay.
The governor disclosed that the aircraft would begin operations immediately through a partnership with the Nigerian Air Force. He explained that the state had signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Air Force, with military pilots already involved in flying the aircraft during their arrival.
“I am glad the aircraft are finally here. We will continue to do what is right in the interest of our people. In an atmosphere of insecurity, development becomes difficult. Our children are back in school, our teachers have returned, and we will continue implementing our plans,” Makinde added.
Earlier, the Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, said the arrival of the aircraft fulfilled the government’s promise that they would be delivered before the end of July. He recalled that the purchase was first announced on July 8, 2025, to strengthen intelligence gathering and aerial surveillance across the state.
According to the commissioner, the aircraft will work alongside the Oyo State Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun Corps, the Nigerian Air Force, and other security agencies to monitor forests, border communities, and other identified security flashpoints. They are also expected to support intelligence-led operations, search-and-rescue missions, and improve coordination during emergency responses.
The acquisition gained greater significance after the abduction of 39 students and seven teachers from schools in Oriire Local Government Area on May 15, 2026. The incident intensified calls for improved surveillance and reinforced the government’s decision to invest in aerial security assets aimed at protecting lives and property across Oyo State.
