Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has received two newly acquired surveillance aircraft as part of efforts by his administration to strengthen security operations and improve intelligence gathering across the state.
The aircraft arrived at the Ibadan Airport on Tuesday, marking the completion of a security initiative announced by the governor about a year ago. According to Makinde, the acquisition was designed to provide additional support for security personnel operating across the state’s large geographical area.
Speaking shortly after the arrival of the aircraft, the governor explained that the decision was based on the need to improve aerial monitoring and enable security agencies to respond faster to emerging threats.
Makinde said Oyo’s vast territory required more advanced security tools that could complement the efforts of personnel working on the ground. He noted that the aircraft would help security teams cover difficult locations and gather vital information within a shorter period.
The governor acknowledged that recent security challenges in the state, including kidnapping incidents, had increased concerns among residents. However, he stated that the government had already anticipated the need for stronger surveillance systems before those incidents occurred.
He recalled that some people had questioned the delay in the arrival of the aircraft after the announcement was made, but insisted that the procurement process was part of a carefully planned strategy to improve the state’s security framework.
Expressing confidence in the new security equipment, Makinde said the arrival of the aircraft represented a major step toward protecting residents and creating a safer environment for economic and social activities.
He added that improved security was essential for the smooth running of government programmes, education and other important sectors, noting that residents could only thrive when they feel safe.
The governor revealed that the aircraft would begin operations immediately, adding that his administration had established a working arrangement with the Nigerian Air Force to ensure proper management and effective utilisation of the equipment.
According to him, the aircraft were flown by Air Force personnel, highlighting the collaboration between the state government and federal security institutions.
Makinde assured residents that his administration would continue to invest in measures aimed at protecting lives and property, stressing that the welfare and safety of citizens remained a major priority.
Meanwhile, Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, described the arrival of the aircraft as another milestone in the government’s efforts to modernise security operations.
Oyelade explained that the acquisition was intended to improve surveillance capabilities, strengthen intelligence collection and assist security agencies in addressing criminal activities across the state.
He recalled that the state government announced plans to purchase the aircraft in July 2025 as part of broader measures to improve the capacity of security agencies to respond to threats.
The commissioner also stated that the aircraft had earlier arrived in Nigeria and underwent necessary preparations before being delivered to Oyo State.
He added that the surveillance equipment would support security organisations, including the Oyo State Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun Corps, as well as other relevant security bodies.
Government officials said the aircraft would work alongside existing security structures to monitor forests, border areas and locations considered vulnerable to criminal activities.
The move followed increased calls for improved security measures after the abduction of students and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area, an incident that generated public concern and renewed discussions about intelligence gathering and emergency response.
Makinde had previously explained that the decision to acquire surveillance aircraft was made before the incident, but the attack further highlighted the importance of strengthening aerial security operations.
The newly deployed aircraft are expected to assist with monitoring, rescue operations, intelligence sharing and faster coordination between security agencies throughout Oyo State.
