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The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified efforts to secure the release of teachers and pupils abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State by deploying an aerial surveillance aircraft to support ongoing search-and-rescue operations.
NAF spokesman, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, disclosed this in a statement issued on Sunday, following a courtesy visit to Governor Seyi Makinde by a delegation representing the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke. The delegation was led by the Air Officer Commanding Logistics Command, Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Suleh.
According to the statement, Governor Makinde revealed that the Air Force responded swiftly to the abduction by deploying a surveillance platform immediately after the incident was reported.
He noted that the aircraft has continued to generate critical intelligence that is assisting security agencies in tracking the abductors and coordinating efforts to secure the safe release of 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,” Makinde said.
He added that intelligence gathered from the surveillance missions has remained vital in monitoring developments and guiding security operatives involved in the rescue mission.
The governor appealed to residents of the affected communities and the wider Oyo State populace to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies as efforts continue to secure the freedom of the abducted victims.
Makinde assured citizens that the government was deploying all available resources and working closely with security agencies to ensure a successful outcome.
He commended the Chief of the Air Staff and the Nigerian Air Force for their prompt intervention and sustained support, noting that the surveillance aircraft was provided at a time when Oyo State’s newly acquired aerial assets were yet to become operational.
According to him, the state’s newly procured aircraft are currently 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,” the governor stated.
Makinde explained that the state government acquired the aerial platforms after extensive consultations with the Nigerian Air Force to ensure access to maintenance services, engineering expertise and pilot training.
He expressed confidence that once operational, the assets would significantly strengthen security operations within Oyo State and neighbouring states.
Speaking on behalf of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Suleh reaffirmed the Air Force’s commitment to supporting all efforts aimed at rescuing the abducted teachers and pupils.
Suleh assured the state government of the Air Force’s continued collaboration with other security agencies to tackle security threats and guarantee the safe return of the victims.
He also praised the Oyo State Government for its support toward Nigerian Air Force projects and infrastructure development within the state.
The Nigerian Air Force reiterated its commitment to working with relevant stakeholders across the country to protect lives and property and enhance national security.
The abduction occurred on May 15, 2026, when armed men invaded three schools in the Yawota and Ahoro-Esinele axis of Oriire Local Government Area, abducting 39 pupils and seven teachers, bringing the total number of victims to 46.
The incident has heightened concerns over the safety of schools and the growing threat posed by criminal groups targeting educational institutions across parts of Nigeria.
