Governor Seyi Makinde has disclosed that the Nigerian Air Force deployed an aerial surveillance aircraft to aid ongoing efforts to rescue teachers and pupils abducted from communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The governor said the surveillance platform was deployed shortly after armed men attacked schools in Yawota and Ahoro-Esinle communities, abducting dozens of victims in the process.
Makinde made the disclosure during a courtesy visit by representatives of the Chief of the Air Staff, led by the Air Officer Commanding Logistics Command, Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Suleh.
According to a statement issued on Sunday by the spokesman of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the governor commended the swift intervention of the Air Force in supporting the rescue operation.
Makinde explained that intelligence gathered through the aerial surveillance missions has continued to assist security agencies coordinating the search-and-rescue efforts.
“The NAF promptly deployed an aerial surveillance platform immediately after the abduction was reported, providing critical intelligence to support search-and-rescue operations,” the governor was quoted as saying.
He added that intelligence obtained from the operations had become vital in tracking developments linked to the kidnapping and guiding efforts aimed at securing the victims’ release.
The governor appealed to residents of the affected communities and other parts of the state to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies conducting the operation.
He assured residents that the state government and security agencies were deploying all available resources to ensure the safe return of the abducted teachers and pupils.
Makinde also praised the Nigerian Air Force and the Chief of the Air Staff for their continued support, noting that the surveillance aircraft became necessary because Oyo State’s newly acquired aerial security assets were still undergoing assembly at the Nigerian Air Force Base in Lagos.
“The Air Force made the surveillance platform available while Oyo State’s newly acquired aerial assets are still being assembled at the NAF Base, Lagos,” he stated.
The governor further explained that the state acquired the aerial platforms after consultations with the Nigerian Air Force to ensure access to technical support, engineering expertise and pilot training.
He expressed optimism that the assets would strengthen security operations not only in Oyo State but also across neighbouring states once fully operational.
Speaking on behalf of the Chief of the Air Staff, Suleh reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Air Force to supporting all efforts targeted at rescuing the abducted victims.
He said the Air Force remained in solidarity with the Oyo State government and would continue collaborating with other security agencies to tackle security challenges confronting the state and the country.
Suleh also commended the Oyo State Government for supporting Nigerian Air Force projects and infrastructure development within the state.
The Nigerian Air Force reiterated its commitment to working with relevant stakeholders to protect lives and property nationwide.
Gunmen had on May 15, 2026, attacked three schools in Oriire Local Government Area, abducting 39 students and seven teachers, bringing the total number of victims to 46.
The incident has heightened concerns over insecurity around schools and recurring attacks on educational institutions in parts of Nigeria.
