The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified efforts to secure the release of teachers and pupils kidnapped in the Yawota and Ahoro-Esinele communities of Oriire Local Government Area, Oyo State.
It has shown commitment by deploying an aerial surveillance aircraft to support ongoing rescue operations.
Governor Seyi Makinde disclosed this development on Friday while receiving a delegation representing the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, alongside the Air Officer Commanding Logistics Command, Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Suleh, during a courtesy visit.
As reported by PUNCH, the governor revealed that the Air Force responded swiftly after being notified of the abduction, immediately providing intelligence support that has played a significant role in guiding security agencies involved in the rescue mission.
“The NAF promptly deployed an aerial surveillance platform immediately after the abduction was reported, providing critical intelligence to support search-and-rescue operations,” he stated.
Intelligence Improves Rescue Efforts
Makinde explained that information gathered through the aerial surveillance operations has been instrumental in monitoring activities in the affected areas and shaping the strategies being used by security operatives to locate and recover the victims.
He appealed to residents to remain calm and cooperate with authorities, assuring them that every available resource is being utilized to ensure the safe return of those abducted.
The governor further applauded the Nigerian Air Force for its rapid intervention, pointing out that the surveillance aircraft was deployed at a time when Oyo State’s newly procured aerial assets have yet to become operational and are still undergoing assembly at the NAF Base in Lagos.
He explained: “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 noted that the decision to acquire aerial platforms followed extensive consultations with the Air Force, aimed at guaranteeing access to technical maintenance services, engineering support, and pilot training opportunities.
According to him, once fully operational, the aircraft will significantly enhance security operations not only within Oyo State but also across neighbouring states.
Air Force Reaffirms Support
Representing the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Suleh reiterated the Nigerian Air Force’s determination to assist in efforts aimed at rescuing the abducted teachers and students.
He emphasized that the Air Force would sustain its collaboration with other security agencies in tackling security threats across the country. Suleh also commended the Oyo State Government for its continued support of Air Force projects and infrastructure development initiatives within the state.
The abduction occurred on May 15, 2026, when armed assailants invaded three schools in Oriire Local Government Area and kidnapped 39 students along with seven teachers, bringing the total number of victims to 46.
The incident has further raised concerns about the safety of schools and the recurring attacks targeting educational institutions across Nigeria.
