Follow Us on Google
By Philip Nwosu
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) said it has intensified aerial surveillance operations in support of efforts to rescue teachers and pupils abducted from Yawota and Ahoro-Esinele communities in the Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Seyi Makinde, disclosed this during a courtesy visit by the Air Officer Commanding (AOC) Logistics Command, Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Suleh, who represented the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke.
According to the governor, the Air Force responded swiftly after news of the abduction emerged by deploying an aerial surveillance platform to support ongoing search-and-rescue operations.
Makinde said intelligence gathered from the surveillance missions has continued to provide valuable support to security agencies involved in efforts to locate the victims and facilitate their safe return.
“The Nigerian Air Force promptly deployed an aerial surveillance platform immediately after the incident was reported, and the intelligence generated has been instrumental in supporting rescue efforts,” the governor stated.
He appealed to residents of the affected communities and the general public to remain calm and patient, assuring them that the government and security agencies are deploying all available resources to secure the release of the abducted teachers and pupils.
The governor commended the Chief of the Air Staff and the Nigerian Air Force for their prompt intervention and sustained support, noting that the surveillance platform was made available at a critical time when Oyo State’s newly acquired aerial assets are yet to become operational.
Other News
Makinde explained that the state’s aircraft are currently being assembled at the Nigerian Air Force Base in Lagos and would soon be deployed to strengthen security operations within Oyo State and neighbouring states.
He revealed that the decision to acquire the aerial platforms followed consultations with the Nigerian Air Force to ensure access to technical support, maintenance services, engineering expertise, and pilot training.
According to him, the collaboration is expected to enhance the operational effectiveness and sustainability of the state’s air assets once they become fully operational.
Speaking on behalf of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Suleh conveyed the solidarity of the Nigerian Air Force with the government and people of Oyo State over the unfortunate incident.
He reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to supporting all efforts aimed at ensuring the safe rescue of the abducted victims and restoring security in the affected communities.
The senior officer also commended the Oyo State government for its continued support towards Nigerian Air Force projects and infrastructure development within the state.
Suleh stressed that the Air Force remains committed to working closely with other security agencies and stakeholders in addressing security challenges across the country.
The renewed aerial surveillance operation underscores the Nigerian Air Force’s ongoing role in supporting internal security operations and leveraging airpower, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities to combat emerging threats and safeguard lives and property nationwide.
