The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has deployed an aerial surveillance aircraft to assist ongoing search-and-rescue operations for teachers and pupils abducted from Yawota and Ahoro-Esinele communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The intervention was confirmed in a statement on Sunday, June 7, by NAF spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, who said Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde disclosed the development during a meeting with senior Air Force officials in Ibadan.
The officials included representatives of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, and the Air Officer Commanding Logistics Command, Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Suleh.
Governor Makinde explained that the Air Force responded immediately after the abduction was reported by deploying an aerial surveillance platform to provide intelligence support for ongoing rescue operations.
He noted that the intelligence gathered from the missions has continued to guide security agencies in tracking the movements of the kidnappers and coordinating efforts aimed at securing the release of the victims.
“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 also appealed to residents of the affected communities and the wider state to remain calm and supportive as security agencies intensify efforts to rescue the abducted victims.
READ ALSO: Police Dismiss Abducted Oyo Schoolchild’s Death As False, Warn Against Misinformation
He assured that all necessary measures were being taken to ensure the safe return of the pupils and teachers.
The governor commended the Nigerian Air Force for its swift intervention, adding that the surveillance aircraft was deployed while Oyo State’s newly acquired aerial assets were still being assembled at the Air Force base in Lagos.
“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.
He further explained that the state acquired the aerial equipment after consultations with the Air Force to ensure proper maintenance support, technical expertise, and pilot training for effective operation.
Makinde expressed confidence that once fully operational, the assets would significantly strengthen security operations in Oyo State and neighbouring regions.
Speaking on behalf of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Suleh reaffirmed the Air Force’s commitment to supporting the rescue mission and working with other security agencies to address insecurity.
He assured that the Air Force remains fully engaged in efforts to ensure the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers, while also appreciating the Oyo State Government for its cooperation on military infrastructure projects.
The Nigerian Air Force reiterated its commitment to continued collaboration with relevant security agencies to safeguard lives and property across the country.
The deployment comes after the May 15, 2026 attack in Oriire LGA, where armed men abducted 39 students and seven teachers from schools in the area, totalling 46 victims, raising renewed concerns over school security in Nigeria.