The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has deployed an aerial surveillance aircraft to aid the search-and-rescue operation for dozens of pupils and teachers kidnapped from communities in Oyo State, as security agencies intensify efforts to locate and free the victims.
The NAF spokesman, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, confirmed the development in a statement on Sunday, revealing that the deployment was disclosed by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde during a courtesy visit by senior Air Force officials, including the representative of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, and the Air Officer Commanding Logistics Command, Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Suleh.
According to the governor, the Air Force moved swiftly once the abduction was reported, providing critical aerial intelligence to support the ongoing rescue mission.
“The NAF promptly deployed an aerial surveillance platform immediately after the abduction was reported, providing critical intelligence to support search-and-rescue operations,” Makinde stated, adding that “intelligence generated from the surveillance missions has continued to assist security agencies in tracking developments and coordinating efforts towards securing the safe release of the victims.”
The governor also appealed for calm among residents of the affected communities, assuring them that all necessary resources were being committed to bringing the victims home safely. He further commended the Chief of the Air Staff and the Air Force for their rapid and sustained response.
Makinde noted that the NAF surveillance aircraft was made available as a stopgap measure while Oyo State’s own newly acquired aerial assets remain under assembly at the Nigerian Air Force Base in Lagos.
“The Air Force made the surveillance platform available while Oyo State’s newly acquired aerial assets are still being assembled at the NAF Base, Lagos,” he said, adding that the state procured the platforms following consultations with the Air Force to ensure access to maintenance support, engineering expertise, and pilot training.
Speaking on behalf of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Suleh reaffirmed the military’s commitment to the rescue effort, conveying the NAF’s solidarity with Oyo State and pledging continued cooperation with other security agencies.
He also commended the Oyo State Government for its support of NAF infrastructure and development projects in the state.
The abductions occurred on May 15, 2026, when armed assailants stormed three schools in the Oriire Local Government Area, carting away 39 students and seven teachers — a total of 46 victims. The attack has reignited national debate over the safety of schools and the vulnerability of educational institutions to armed groups across parts of Nigeria.
