The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified efforts to secure the release of teachers and pupils abducted in Oyo State by deploying a surveillance aircraft to support ongoing search-and-rescue operations in the affected communities.
This development was disclosed by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, during a courtesy visit on Friday by representatives of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, and the Air Officer Commanding Logistics Command, Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Suleh.
According to a statement issued on Sunday by NAF spokesperson Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the Air Force acted immediately after receiving reports of the abduction by deploying an aerial surveillance platform to gather intelligence and support security agencies working to rescue the victims.
Governor Makinde explained that the intelligence generated through the surveillance missions has played a crucial role in monitoring developments and enhancing coordination among security agencies involved in the 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,” the governor stated.
Makinde appealed to residents of the affected communities and the wider public to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies as efforts continue to secure the release of the abducted victims. He assured citizens that all available resources are being mobilised to achieve a successful outcome.
The governor praised the Chief of the Air Staff and the Nigerian Air Force for their prompt intervention and continued support, noting that the surveillance aircraft was deployed at a time when Oyo State’s newly acquired aerial security assets are still undergoing assembly at the Nigerian 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.
Makinde further revealed that the state government procured the aerial platforms after consultations with the Nigerian Air Force. According to him, the partnership was designed to ensure access to maintenance services, technical support, engineering expertise, and pilot training.
He expressed confidence that once operational, the newly acquired aircraft would significantly improve security surveillance and response capabilities within Oyo State and neighbouring regions.
Representing the Chief of the Air Staff, Suleh reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to supporting all efforts aimed at securing the safe return of the abducted teachers and students.
He stressed that the Air Force remains fully aligned with the Oyo State Government and will continue to collaborate with other security agencies in addressing security threats across the state and the country.
Suleh also commended the Oyo State Government for its support toward various Nigerian Air Force infrastructure and development projects within the state.
The Air Force reiterated its commitment to working with relevant stakeholders to protect lives and property nationwide and strengthen security operations across Nigeria.
The abduction occurred on May 15, 2026, when armed men attacked three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. During the attack, 39 students and seven teachers were kidnapped, bringing the total number of victims to 46.
The incident has further heightened concerns about the security of educational institutions and the growing threat of school-related kidnappings in parts of the country.
