NAF Deploys Surveillance Aircraft To Track Abducted Oyo Pupils, Teachers

According to Ireporter Online, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has deployed an aerial surveillance aircraft to support ongoing search-and-rescue operations for pupils and teachers abducted from Yawota and Ahoro-Esinele communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

NAF spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, confirmed the development in a statement released on Sunday, noting that the deployment was part of coordinated efforts to secure the safe return of the victims.

Governor Seyi Makinde disclosed the development during a courtesy visit by representatives of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, alongside the Air Officer Commanding Logistics Command, Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Suleh.

The governor explained that the Air Force responded swiftly after the incident was reported by deploying a surveillance platform to provide critical intelligence support to security agencies involved in the operation.

According to Makinde, the intelligence gathered from the aerial missions has continued to assist in tracking movements and strengthening coordination among security operatives working on the rescue effort. He also appealed to residents of the affected communities to remain calm and supportive as security operations continue, assuring that all necessary measures were being deployed to ensure the victims’ safe return.

Makinde further commended the leadership of the Nigerian Air Force for its prompt response and sustained involvement in the operation. He revealed that the surveillance aircraft currently in use was provided temporarily while Oyo State’s newly acquired aerial assets are being assembled at the Nigerian Air Force Base in Lagos.

He added that the state procured the aircraft after consultations with the Air Force to ensure proper maintenance, engineering support, and pilot training, expressing optimism that the assets would enhance future security operations in the state and surrounding regions once fully operational.

Speaking on behalf of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Suleh reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to supporting ongoing rescue operations. He assured that the service would continue to work closely with other security agencies until the abducted pupils and teachers are safely rescued.

Suleh also praised the Oyo State Government for its continued support for Air Force projects and infrastructure development within the state, while reiterating the military’s solidarity with the people of Oyo during the crisis.

It would be recalled that on May 15, 2026, armed assailants stormed three schools in Oriire Local Government Area, abducting 39 students and seven teachers, bringing the total number of victims to 46. The attack has further heightened concerns over the safety of schools and recurring insecurity targeting educational institutions in parts of the country.