NAF Deploys Surveillance Aircraft For Oyo Abducted Pupils, Teachers

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

Naija News reports that the NAF spokesman, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday.

According to the statement, Governor Seyi Makinde confirmed the deployment 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.

Makinde said the Air Force responded promptly after the abduction was reported by deploying a surveillance platform to assist security agencies involved in the search-and-rescue operation.

He said, “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 appealed to residents of the affected communities and the state to remain patient and support ongoing security operations.

He assured them that all necessary resources were being deployed to ensure the safe rescue of the abducted victims.

Makinde also commended the Chief of the Air Staff and the Nigerian Air Force for their swift response and sustained support.

The governor said the surveillance aircraft was made available while Oyo State’s newly acquired aerial assets were 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 acquired the aerial platforms after consultations with the Nigerian Air Force to ensure access to maintenance support, engineering expertise and pilot training.

He expressed optimism that the assets would strengthen security operations in Oyo and neighbouring states once fully operational.

Speaking on behalf of the Chief of the Air Staff, Suleh reaffirmed the Air Force’s commitment to supporting efforts to rescue the abducted pupils and teachers.

He conveyed the NAF’s solidarity with the government and people of Oyo State.

Suleh said the Air Force would continue to work with other security agencies to tackle security challenges and ensure the safe return of the victims.

He also commended the Oyo State Government for supporting Nigerian Air Force projects and infrastructure development in the state.

On May 15, 2026, armed men attacked three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. The attackers abducted 39 students and seven teachers, bringing the total number of victims to 46.

The incident has renewed concerns over school security and attacks on educational institutions in parts of the country.