FIC Report (Oyo State) – The Government of Oyo State has acquired two surveillance aircrafts to strengthen the state ability to confront the emerging security challenges facing her.
Announcing this, Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to stay ahead of security threats with the acquisition of two advanced surveillance aircrafts, designed to strengthen anti-banditry operations across the state and its border communities.
Speaking this week against the backdrop of recent security concerns, Governor Makinde admitted that Oyo State has faced moments of tension that tested its institutions. However, he stressed that each challenge has made the state more resilient and better prepared to safeguard lives and property.
The governor disclosed that the two DA 42 MNG Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) aircraft, once fully operational, will provide wide aerial coverage across Oyo State and extend surveillance to vulnerable corridors linking Oyo and Kwara states, identifying the borders between Oyo and Kwara States, specifically as areas often exploited by criminal elements due to porousness of the borders.
Stating that although the aircraft are owned by the Oyo State Government, Governor Makinde emphasized that their deployment would strengthen collaborative security efforts. He noted that enhanced intelligence sharing and coordinated operations would benefit not just Oyo but neighboring states, particularly communities grappling with banditry and kidnapping.
According to the governor, the aircraft would significantly boost the operational capacity of Amotekun and other security agencies in combating banditry, kidnapping, illegal mining, and related crimes across Oyo’s expansive terrain and adjoining border areas.
Makinde revealed that the aircraft were procured at a cost of ₦7.7 billion and are fitted with sophisticated surveillance technology capable of identifying targets from both high and low altitudes. The systems allow for real-time intelligence gathering, improving rapid response and precision security operations.
The Oyo State Governor maintained that the investment underscored his administration’s commitment to proactive, intelligence-driven security strategies aimed at ensuring lasting peace and stability in the state.
Signed
Blessing Oluwadamilola Ajayi (Corp member).
Edited by Moses Oyelade, AD(I&PR), FIC, Ibadan.
