Governor Seyi Makinde has urged residents of Oriire Local Government Area to remain calm as an Oyo security operation continues to secure the release of abducted teachers and pupils. The governor assured families that government and security agencies are working continuously to ensure the safe rescue of the victims.
Makinde gave the assurance on Friday while receiving a Nigerian Air Force delegation in Ibadan. The delegation was led by Air Officer Commanding Logistics Command, AVM Abubakar A. Suleh. The visit focused on strengthening coordination between the state government and military authorities involved in the ongoing rescue efforts.
The governor specifically appealed to residents of Yawota and Ahoro-Esinele communities in Oriire LGA to exercise patience. He noted that security operations were ongoing and required careful execution to ensure successful outcomes without endangering the abducted individuals.
He also expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Air Force for deploying a Diamond-42 surveillance aircraft to support real-time monitoring of the rescue mission. According to him, aerial surveillance has improved intelligence gathering and operational coordination in the affected areas.
Makinde disclosed that the state government had previously ordered two Diamond-42 aircraft, which are currently being assembled at the Nigerian Air Force base in Lagos. He explained that the Air Force provided a replacement aircraft to support operations while the state’s aircraft are being fitted.
The governor emphasized that patience from residents remained critical to the success of the Oyo security operation. He stated that careful planning and coordination were necessary to avoid operational setbacks and ensure the safety of the abducted victims.
He added that the procurement of aircraft was a proactive measure aimed at reducing pressure on overstretched security agencies. According to him, the investment was intended to enhance surveillance capacity and improve response times in emergency situations.
Makinde further stated that the state government would collaborate with the Nigerian Air Force on training pilots and maintaining the aircraft once fully deployed. He also commended the Air Force for its continued cooperation with civilian authorities in Oyo State.
The governor reaffirmed the state’s commitment to completing key military infrastructure projects, including the Air Force Base and other supporting facilities in Ibadan. He noted that strong civil-military relations remained essential for maintaining security and stability in the region.
Air Officer Commanding AVM Abubakar A. Suleh, who led the delegation, apologized for the absence of the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, due to national duties. He reassured the governor of the Air Force’s commitment to ensuring a swift resolution of the security situation.
Suleh praised Makinde’s support for military operations in the state, highlighting several collaborative projects. These include the Air Force School perimeter fence in Iyana Offa, dualisation of the Ajia base road, and land approvals for housing and agricultural development.
The delegation also included NAF Investments Ltd Group Managing Director AVM Ibitayo Victor Ajiboye and Air Force Station Ibadan Commander Air Commodore D.U. Njoku. The visit underscored ongoing collaboration between the Oyo State Government and the Nigerian Air Force in addressing security challenges.
