Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, on Tuesday received two Diamond DA42 MNG Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) aircraft, describing the development as a major milestone in the state’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
The governor took delivery of the aircraft at about 5:30 p.m. at the upgraded Samuel Ladoke Akintola International Airport, Alakia, Ibadan. He noted that the acquisition is part of his administration’s broader security strategy aimed at enhancing intelligence gathering, rapid response, and protection of lives and property across the 33 Local Government Areas of the state.
Speaking shortly after the handover, Governor Makinde explained that the decision to procure the aircraft was driven by the vast landmass of Oyo State and the need to strengthen security. He assured residents that the aircraft would commence operations immediately, emphasizing that security is the foundation of development and that the new assets would help sustain the relative peace currently enjoyed in the state.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to the welfare and safety of citizens, the governor said: “When we decided to purchase these two surveillance aircraft, it was because of the sheer size of Oyo State and the need to secure it. We knew we had to complement the boots on the ground.
“We didn’t anticipate the Oriire incident, and I’ve heard people ask, ‘Where are the two aircraft?’ I am glad they are now here. We will always do what is right in the interest of our people, because in an atmosphere of insecurity, you can hardly achieve anything.
“We are hitting the ground running. You can see that they were flown by Air Force pilots. We have negotiated an MOU with the Nigerian Air Force, and we will be working together on this.”
He further assured residents: “My message to the people of Oyo State is that they should rest assured that their government will always be there to serve them.”
Present at the event were the Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade; Senior Executive Assistant to the Governor on General Duties, Chief Bayo Lawal; Commandant of the Oyo State Security Network Agency (Amotekun Corps), Col. Olayinka Olayanju (rtd); and the Deputy Governorship Candidate of the Allied People’s Movement (APM), Engr. Mufutau Open-Salawu, among other top government officials.
