Makinde Receives Two Surveillance Aircraft, Partners Air Force to Bolster Oyo Security

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on Tuesday received two surveillance aircraft and announced a strategic partnership with the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) aimed at strengthening intelligence gathering and enhancing aerial security operations across the state.

The arrival of the aircraft at the Ladoke Akintola International Airport, Alakia, Ibadan, marks the completion of a security initiative unveiled by the governor about a year ago. The aircraft are expected to improve aerial surveillance and support coordinated operations against criminal activities across Oyo State.

Speaking during the handover ceremony, Makinde described the acquisition and partnership with the Air Force as a major milestone in his administration’s efforts to safeguard lives and property.

He said the decision to procure the surveillance aircraft was informed by the state’s expansive landmass, which requires advanced intelligence capabilities to complement security personnel on the ground.

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

Makinde explained that although the recent wave of security challenges, including kidnapping incidents, was not foreseen when the project was conceived, the investment had proved both strategic and timely.

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According to him, the aircraft will enable security agencies to monitor vulnerable areas more effectively and respond swiftly to emerging threats.

“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 added.

The governor noted that despite criticisms over the delay in the delivery of the aircraft, his administration remained committed to implementing its long-term security strategy.

He stressed that improved security is essential for sustainable development, noting that the state’s security efforts have contributed to the restoration of normal academic activities in schools.

“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,” Makinde said.

The governor further disclosed that the aircraft would commence operations immediately under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the Oyo State Government and the Nigerian Air Force.

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He revealed that Air Force pilots flew the aircraft into Ibadan and would work closely with the state under the partnership to strengthen aerial surveillance and intelligence-driven security operations.

“We’re hitting the ground running. You can see the aircraft were flown by Air Force pilots. We have negotiated a Memorandum of Understanding with the Nigerian Air Force, and we will be working together,” he stated.

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to public safety, Makinde assured residents that protecting lives and property would remain a top priority.

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