Oyo Takes Delivery of Two Surveillance Aircraft to Boost Security Operations

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has confirmed the delivery of two Diamond DA42 MNG surveillance aircraft acquired by the state government to strengthen intelligence gathering and enhance security operations.

The governor announced the arrival of the aircraft on Tuesday in a post on his official Facebook page, describing the development as a significant milestone in his administration’s efforts to improve the state’s security architecture.

According to Makinde, the aircraft will be deployed for surveillance and reconnaissance missions to support security agencies in tackling criminal activities across the state.

“Today, we took delivery of the two DA42 MNG aircraft procured by our administration for security surveillance and reconnaissance missions in Oyo State.

“We are grateful to the officers of the Nigerian Air Force who have provided support and guidance throughout this process, and we look forward to continued collaboration on the security of our dear state and nation,” the governor said.

The aircraft arrived at the newly upgraded Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport in Ibadan, about a year after the state government announced plans to procure the platforms.

The two Diamond DA42 MNG aircraft are expected to improve aerial surveillance, intelligence gathering and rapid response capabilities, particularly in forests, border communities and other hard-to-reach areas where criminal elements often operate.

The acquisition forms part of the Oyo State Government’s broader strategy to strengthen collaboration with security agencies and improve the protection of lives and property across the state.

The surveillance platforms were reportedly acquired at a cost of about ₦7.76 billion.