The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified aerial surveillance operations to support the ongoing search-and-rescue mission for pupils and teachers abducted from communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The victims—drawn from Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community Grammar School, Esiele; and L.A. Primary School—were kidnapped on May 15 during a deadly bandit attack that also claimed the life of a teacher.
According to a statement on Sunday by NAF spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the Force has continued to deploy surveillance aircraft to provide real-time intelligence to ground troops and other security agencies involved in the rescue operation.
The development followed a courtesy visit on June 5, 2026, by a delegation led by the representative of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Suleh, and the Air Officer Commanding Logistics Command, to Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde.
Makinde, according to the statement, disclosed that the Air Force immediately deployed an aerial surveillance platform once the abduction was reported, describing the intervention as critical to sustaining search efforts across difficult terrain.
He noted that intelligence gathered from the missions has continued to guide coordinated operations aimed at tracking the kidnappers and securing the release of the victims alive.
The governor also appealed for calm among residents, assuring that security agencies are fully engaged and that all necessary resources are being deployed to resolve the crisis.
Makinde further commended the NAF for its swift response, especially its decision to deploy surveillance assets while the state’s newly acquired aerial platforms are still undergoing integration at the NAF Base in Lagos.
He explained that the state procured the aircraft in consultation with the Air Force to ensure technical support, maintenance capacity and pilot training.
The governor expressed optimism that the assets, once fully operational, would significantly strengthen security surveillance across Oyo and neighbouring states.
Speaking on behalf of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Suleh reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Air Force to support ongoing operations until the abducted pupils and teachers are safely rescued.
He also praised the Oyo State Government for its continued collaboration and support for military operations and infrastructure development.
Meanwhile, tension remains high following the May 15 attack, which triggered statewide concern and protests by teachers’ unions and civil society organisations in Ibadan, demanding urgent action to secure the victims.
The House of Representatives has also urged federal authorities and security agencies to expedite rescue efforts.
President Bola Tinubu had earlier approved the deployment of special forest guards and reinforced rescue teams as part of broader efforts to tackle rising cases of school abductions in the region.
FOLLOW US
FOR MORE HERE
More details here…
