Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has received two surveillance aircraft and announced a strategic partnership with the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to strengthen intelligence gathering and aerial security operations across the state. The governor described the initiative as a major step in improving Oyo security and protecting lives and property. He said the investment reflects his administration’s long-term commitment to tackling insecurity through modern technology and stronger collaboration with security agencies. The new aircraft are expected to play a key role in enhancing Oyo security across the state’s vast territory.
The aircraft arrived at the Ladoke Akintola International Airport, Alakia, Ibadan, completing a security project unveiled about a year ago. They are expected to improve aerial surveillance and support coordinated operations across the state.
Speaking after receiving the aircraft, Makinde said the decision to acquire them was driven by Oyo State’s large landmass, making it necessary to complement security personnel on the ground with advanced aerial intelligence.
“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,” Makinde said.
He explained that although recent security challenges, including kidnapping incidents, were not anticipated when the project began, the investment had proven timely. The governor added that his administration remained focused on delivering its security plans despite criticism over the delay in the aircraft’s arrival.
“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.
Makinde described the delivery of the aircraft as another demonstration of his administration’s commitment to proactive Oyo security measures. He stressed that sustainable development depends on a secure environment and noted that improved security had allowed schools to resume normal academic activities.
“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 said.
The governor also announced that the aircraft would begin operations immediately under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Nigerian Air Force. He noted that NAF pilots flew the aircraft into the state and described the partnership as a significant boost to the state’s security architecture.
“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 said.
Makinde assured residents that protecting lives and property would remain a top priority of his administration.
“My message to the people of Oyo State is that their government will always be there to serve them,” he said.
Do you think aerial surveillance will significantly improve security across Oyo State?
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