NAF Deploys Surveillance Aircraft to Track Abducted Oyo Teachers, Pupils

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has deployed an aerial surveillance aircraft to support efforts to rescue teachers and pupils abducted from Yawota and Ahoro-Esinele communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

 

Governor Seyi Makinde disclosed this during a courtesy visit by the representative 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 spokesman, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the governor said the Air Force responded swiftly after the abduction was reported by deploying a surveillance platform to assist ongoing search-and-rescue operations.

 

Makinde explained that intelligence generated from the aerial missions has been critical in supporting security agencies involved in efforts to locate and rescue the victims.

 

“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,” he said.

 

The governor appealed to residents of the affected communities and the wider public to remain patient and cooperate with security agencies, assuring them that every available resource was being deployed to secure the victims’ release.

 

He commended the Chief of the Air Staff and the Nigerian Air Force for their rapid intervention, noting that the surveillance aircraft was provided 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,” Makinde stated.

 

The governor explained that the state acquired the aerial platforms after consultations with the Nigerian Air Force to ensure access to maintenance support, engineering expertise and pilot training.

 

He expressed confidence that the assets would significantly strengthen security operations in Oyo State and neighbouring areas once they become 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 aimed at securing the release of the abducted teachers and pupils.

 

He assured the state government of the NAF’s continued collaboration with other security agencies to address security challenges and safeguard lives and property.

 

Suleh also commended the Oyo State Government for its support for Nigerian Air Force projects and infrastructure development within the state.

 

The abduction occurred on May 15, 2026, when armed men attacked three schools in Oriire Local Government Area, kidnapping 39 students and seven teachers, bringing the total number of victims to 46.