In a decisive move to enhance security and combat emerging threats, Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has approved the immediate procurement of two state-of-the-art surveillance aircraft. This was among the key decisions taken at the Executive Council meeting held on Tuesday, as part of the administration’s strategy to reinforce its security and infrastructure agenda.
Addressing journalists after the meeting, the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, announced that the council sanctioned the acquisition of two DA 42 MNG Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) aircraft. The aircraft, costing ₦7.76 billion, will bolster efforts to track and combat illegal mining, banditry, and kidnapping across the state’s expansive terrain.
Oyelade highlighted that Oyo State, despite being relatively peaceful, remains vulnerable to pockets of insecurity, particularly in remote areas. “We will not rest on our laurels,” he said. “The aircraft will support Amotekun and other security agencies in targeting and dismantling criminal hideouts.”
The DA 42 MNG aircraft were selected over helicopters for their affordability, ease of maintenance, and compatibility with existing Nigerian Air Force assets—enabling operational synergy.
The commissioner also emphasised the scale of Oyo State, noting its 28,454 square kilometre landmass, making it the largest in the South and larger than ten African countries combined.
The new ISR aircraft will support the state’s Amotekun Corps, which boasts the largest personnel strength (2,500 operatives), vehicle fleet (181), and motorcycle assets (450) among Southwest states. Amotekun operatives in Oyo are also the highest paid in the region, with a minimum salary of ₦116,000 monthly.
Beyond security, the Council approved a series of infrastructure projects worth over ₦92 billion, including:
- ₦83.03 billion for bridge and road construction along the Northeast and Southwest segments of the 110km Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road. Completion of 72km is targeted before the end of Makinde’s tenure in 2027.
- ₦2.33 billion for asphalt upgrades on Secretariat Road, UI-Sango Road, and Obafemi Awolowo Stadium Road.
- ₦6.8 billion for completion of the Mobil–Oluyole Industrial Estate road network.
In the energy sector, the council endorsed a ₦595 million direct intervention for operations and maintenance of the Light-Up Oyo solar project, along with a ₦190 million monthly payment to sustain its efficiency.
“These projects underscore the governor’s unwavering commitment to transforming Oyo into a safe, connected, and economically vibrant state,” Oyelade concluded.
