The Nigerian Air Force has stepped up efforts to secure the release of dozens of teachers and pupils kidnapped in Oyo State, deploying a surveillance aircraft to assist security agencies tracking the victims and their captors.
Governor Seyi Makinde disclosed the development during a courtesy visit by representatives of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, led by the Air Officer Commanding Logistics Command, Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Suleh.
According to the governor, the Air Force acted swiftly following reports of the abduction, deploying aerial surveillance assets that have since been providing crucial intelligence for the ongoing rescue operation.
“The NAF promptly deployed an aerial surveillance platform immediately after the abduction was reported, providing critical intelligence to support search-and-rescue operations.
“Intelligence generated from the surveillance missions has continued to assist security agencies in tracking developments and coordinating efforts towards securing the safe release of the victims,” he was quoted as saying.
Makinde noted that intelligence gathered through the aerial missions has significantly strengthened coordination among security agencies involved in the operation and enhanced efforts aimed at locating the victims.
While appealing for calm among residents of the affected communities, the governor assured families and citizens that the state government was working closely with security agencies and deploying every available resource to ensure a positive outcome.
The governor also praised the Nigerian Air Force for its rapid intervention, revealing that the surveillance aircraft was deployed at a time when Oyo State’s newly acquired aerial security assets were yet to become operational.
“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 said.
Makinde explained that the state’s decision to acquire aerial platforms followed extensive consultations with the Nigerian Air Force, particularly to guarantee access to technical maintenance support, engineering expertise and pilot training.
He expressed confidence that the new assets would greatly improve security surveillance and emergency response capabilities across Oyo State and neighbouring areas once fully operational.
Speaking on behalf of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Suleh reaffirmed the Air Force’s commitment to supporting efforts to rescue the abducted victims and tackle emerging security threats.
He stressed that the Nigerian Air Force remained in solidarity with the government and people of Oyo State and would continue to collaborate with other security agencies in confronting insecurity.
Suleh further assured residents that the Air Force would sustain its support for ongoing operations aimed at ensuring the safe return of the kidnapped teachers and pupils.
He also commended the Oyo State Government for its continued support for Nigerian Air Force projects and infrastructure development within the state.
The Air Force reiterated its commitment to working with relevant stakeholders nationwide to protect lives and property and strengthen security across the country.
The latest intervention follows the May 15, 2026 attack on three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, where armed men abducted 39 students and seven teachers, bringing the total number of victims to 46.
The mass abduction has heightened concerns over the safety of schools and renewed calls for stronger security measures to protect educational institutions from criminal attacks.
(Ripples)
