In a strategic move to strengthen security across Oyo State, the state government has approved the procurement of two surveillance aircraft to bolster the fight against banditry, illegal mining, and other criminal activities, particularly in the vast hinterlands of the state.
This development was disclosed by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, in a statement issued after the Executive Council meeting held on Tuesday.
According to the Commissioner, the two DA 42 MNG light aircraft—equipped with advanced Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) technology—are capable of detecting and tracking threats from both high and low altitudes. He explained that the choice of these aircraft over helicopters was due to their lower maintenance costs, readily available spare parts, and compatibility with models already in use by the Nigerian Air Force, enabling enhanced operational synergy.
Oyelade emphasized that although Oyo State enjoys relative peace compared to many other states, the government remains proactive in addressing lingering cases of kidnapping and banditry.
The two aircraft were acquired at a cost of ₦7.76 billion and will serve as vital support to the operations of the Amotekun Corps and other security agencies in flushing out criminals from their hideouts.
He highlighted Oyo State’s unique challenges, noting its expansive landmass of 28,454 square kilometres—the largest in southern Nigeria and bigger than 10 African countries—necessitating a more robust surveillance mechanism.
The Commissioner also revealed that the Oyo State Amotekun Corps has the highest number of personnel (2,500), operational vehicles (181), and motorcycles (450) in the South West. Furthermore, Amotekun operatives in the state receive the highest wages in the region, with the lowest-paid officer earning ₦116,000 monthly.
In addition to the aircraft procurement, the State Executive Council approved several key infrastructural projects, including:
- Construction of bridges and interchanges as part of the 110km Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road project at a cost of ₦83.03 billion, with 72km scheduled for completion by 2027.
- Asphaltic upgrades to Secretariat Road, Trans Amusement–UI–Sango Road, and Obafemi Awolowo Stadium Road at ₦36.35 billion.
- Reconstruction of Mobil–Oluyole Industrial Estate Road network for ₦6.80 billion.
- Direct intervention in the operations and maintenance of the Light-up Oyo Solar Project with an initial cost of ₦595 million and a monthly maintenance budget of ₦190 million.
The Oyo State Government reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety and infrastructural development of the state as part of Governor ‘Seyi Makinde’s broader agenda to enhance economic growth and social stability.
