- He also praised the Chief of the Air Staff and the Air Force for what he described as their rapid response and continued support
- Makinde urged residents to remain patient and cooperative
- Makinde explained that the state procured the aircraft after consultations with the Air Force to ensure access to technical support
The Nigerian Air Force says it is maintaining aerial surveillance operations to support efforts to rescue teachers and pupils kidnapped from Yawota and Ahoro-Esinele communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State
In a statement issued by NAF spokesperson Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Eko Hot Blog reports that Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde said the Air Force quickly deployed surveillance aircraft after the abductions were reported, enabling security agencies to gather intelligence for the ongoing search-and-rescue operation.
According to the governor, information obtained from the aerial missions has continued to help security agencies monitor developments and coordinate actions aimed at securing the victims’ release.
Makinde urged residents to remain patient and cooperative, assuring them that authorities were deploying all available resources to resolve the situation.
He also praised the Chief of the Air Staff and the Air Force for what he described as their rapid response and continued support. The governor noted that the surveillance assistance was particularly valuable while Oyo State’s newly acquired aerial assets are still being assembled at the NAF base in Lagos.
Makinde explained that the state procured the aircraft after consultations with the Air Force to ensure access to technical support, maintenance services and pilot training.
He expressed optimism that the assets would strengthen security operations within Oyo State and neighbouring states once they become fully operational.
Representing the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Suleh reaffirmed the Air Force’s commitment to supporting efforts to secure the safe return of the abducted teachers and pupils.
He also acknowledged the Oyo State Government’s support for NAF projects and infrastructure development.
The Air Force said it would continue working with other security agencies and stakeholders to protect lives and property while tackling security threats across the country.
The victims were abducted on May 15 from Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Yawota, Community Grammar School in Esiele and L.A. Primary School during an attack by armed bandits. One of the kidnapped teachers was later killed while in captivity.
The incident triggered protests by teachers and civil society groups, who called for urgent action to secure the release of the remaining captives. The House of Representatives has also urged the Federal Government and security agencies to ensure the victims are rescued alive.
In response to the attack, President Bola Tinubu approved the deployment of a special rescue team and the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards to strengthen security efforts in the affected area.
