By: Tunji Okunlola
The Oyo State Government has taken delivery of two security surveillance aircraft procured to strengthen security operations and improve intelligence gathering across the state.
The aircraft arrived at the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport in Ibadan on Tuesday and are expected to enhance aerial surveillance, intelligence-led policing and rapid response to security threats in Oyo State and adjoining areas.
Announcing the development in a statement issued in Ibadan, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, described the arrival of the aircraft as a significant milestone in the state’s ongoing efforts to reinforce its security architecture through advanced surveillance technology.
Oyelade recalled that Governor Seyi Makinde had disclosed on July 18, 2026, that the aircraft had arrived in Nigeria and were undergoing reassembly at the Nigerian Air Force hangar in Lagos before their deployment to Oyo State.
He noted that the government had assured residents that the aircraft would be delivered before the end of July, adding that Tuesday’s arrival fulfilled that commitment.
According to the commissioner, the aircraft will support security agencies, including the Amotekun Corps and other relevant security formations, by improving their ability to monitor criminal activities, gather intelligence and respond swiftly to security incidents across the state.
He also disclosed that Governor Makinde would officially receive the aircraft at the airport.
The Oyo State Government first announced the acquisition of the two surveillance aircraft on July 8, 2025, as part of broader efforts to enhance the operational capacity of security agencies in tackling emerging security challenges.
The delivery comes months after the governor unveiled plans to invest in modern aerial surveillance assets to bolster the fight against kidnapping, banditry and other criminal activities in the state.