By Ayomide Otitoju
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has sustained aerial surveillance operations in support of efforts to rescue teachers and pupils abducted from Yawota and Ahoro-Esinele communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
This was disclosed by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde during a courtesy visit by a delegation led by the representative of the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, and the Air Officer Commanding Logistics Command, Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Suleh, on June 5, 2026.
In a statement issued by NAF spokesman, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Makinde revealed that the Air Force promptly deployed an aerial surveillance platform immediately after the abduction was reported, generating critical intelligence to support ongoing search-and-rescue operations.
According to the governor, intelligence gathered from the surveillance missions has continued to assist security agencies in monitoring developments and coordinating efforts to secure the safe release of the victims.
Makinde appealed to residents for patience and cooperation, assuring them that all necessary resources were being deployed to resolve the situation.
He commended the Chief of the Air Staff and the NAF for their swift intervention and sustained support, noting that the Air Force provided the surveillance platform while Oyo State’s newly acquired aerial assets are still being assembled at the NAF Base in Lagos.
The governor explained that the state procured the platforms following consultations with the Air Force to ensure access to maintenance support, engineering expertise, and pilot training.
He expressed confidence that the assets would significantly strengthen security operations across Oyo State and neighbouring states once they become fully operational.
Speaking on behalf of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Suleh reaffirmed the NAF’s commitment to supporting efforts aimed at securing the safe return of the abducted victims.
He also commended the Oyo State Government for its continued support for NAF projects and infrastructure development within the state.
“The NAF remains committed to working closely with other security agencies and relevant stakeholders to safeguard lives and property while supporting efforts to address security challenges across the country,” the statement said.
The victims, comprising pupils and teachers from Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota; Community Grammar School, Esiele; and L.A. Primary School, were abducted on May 15 during an attack by armed bandits.
One of the teachers was reportedly killed while in captivity, a development that triggered nationwide protests by teachers and civil society organisations demanding urgent action to secure the victims’ release.
Last week, the House of Representatives called on the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the abducted teachers and students.
In response to the incident, President Bola Tinubu approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards and the deployment of a special rescue team to support ongoing efforts to recover the victims and strengthen security in the state.
