The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has deployed an aerial surveillance aircraft to support ongoing efforts to rescue teachers and pupils abducted from Yawota and Ahoro-Esinele communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
NAF spokesman, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday, citing Governor Seyi Makinde during a courtesy visit by the representative of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, and the Air Officer Commanding Logistics Command, Air Vice Marshal Adeniran Kolade Suleh.
According to the governor, the Air Force responded swiftly after the abduction was reported by deploying a surveillance platform to provide real-time intelligence for search-and-rescue operations.
Makinde said intelligence gathered from the aerial missions has been instrumental in tracking developments and supporting coordination among security agencies working to secure the victims’ release.
“The NAF promptly deployed an aerial surveillance platform immediately after the abduction was reported, providing critical intelligence to support search-and-rescue operations,” the governor was quoted as saying.
“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 appealed to residents of the affected communities and the wider public to remain calm and support ongoing security operations, assuring them that all necessary resources were being deployed to secure the victims’ freedom.
He also commended the Chief of the Air Staff and the Nigerian Air Force for their prompt intervention, noting that the surveillance aircraft was deployed while Oyo State’s newly acquired aerial assets are still being assembled 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 explained that the state procured the aerial platforms following consultations with the Air Force to ensure access to maintenance support, technical expertise, and pilot training.
He expressed confidence that the assets would significantly strengthen security operations in Oyo State and neighbouring areas once fully operational.
Speaking on behalf of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Suleh reaffirmed the Air Force’s commitment to supporting efforts to secure the release of the abducted teachers and pupils.
He said the NAF stands in solidarity with the government and people of Oyo State and will continue collaborating with other security agencies to tackle security challenges and ensure the safe return of the victims.
Suleh also commended the Oyo State Government for its support toward Nigerian Air Force projects and infrastructure development within the state.
The Air Force reiterated its commitment to working closely with relevant stakeholders to protect lives and property across the country.
The deployment comes weeks after armed men attacked three schools in Oriire Local Government Area on May 15, 2026, abducting 39 students and seven teachers, bringing the total number of victims to 46.
The incident has renewed concerns over the security of schools and the persistent threat posed by kidnappers targeting educational institutions in parts of the country.
