POLITICAL Economy

Oyo Acquires Two Aircraft To Boost Security

by admin on | 2026-07-29 12:27:40

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Oyo Acquires Two Aircraft To Boost Security

By Ahmad Sirajo Makama

The Oyo State Government has received two surveillance aircraft, a year after Governor Seyi Makinde announced plans to acquire them to strengthen intelligence gathering and improve security across the state.

The aircraft arrived at the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport in Ibadan, where the governor said the acquisition would complement security personnel on the ground and enhance the state’s response to threats.

“When we decided to purchase these surveillance aircraft, it was because of the sheer landmass and size of our state. We knew that we had to complement the boots on the ground,” he said.

The governor said the investment had become more significant following recent security challenges, including abduction incidents, noting that the procurement decision predated those developments.

“We didn’t know what was going to happen. I’ve seen people criticise us and ask, ‘Where is the aircraft?’ But we planned for it so that we would be able to cover as much of the state’s landmass as possible within the shortest time,” he said.

Mr Makinde expressed satisfaction that the aircraft had been delivered and reiterated his administration’s commitment to acting in the best interest of residents.

“I’m glad that now it’s here, and I believe we will always do what is right in the interest of our people. In an atmosphere of insecurity, you can hardly do anything. Now, our children are back, our teachers are back, and we’re moving on with our plans,” he added.

He said the aircraft would become operational immediately under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Nigerian Air Force.

“We’re hitting the ground running. You can see the aircraft was flown by Air Force pilots. We have negotiated an MoU with the Nigerian Air Force, and we will be working together,” he said.

The governor assured residents that security would remain a priority.

“My message to the people of Oyo State is that their government will always be there to serve them,” he said.

According to the state government, the aircraft will support aerial reconnaissance, intelligence gathering, and coordinated security operations as part of broader efforts to tackle insecurity and protect lives and property.