The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified aerial surveillance operations to support ongoing efforts aimed at rescuing teachers and pupils abducted from Yawota and Ahoro-Esinele communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
Governor Seyi Makinde disclosed this during a courtesy visit on 5 June 2026 by representatives of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, and the Air Officer Commanding Logistics Command, Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Suleh.
According to the governor, the Air Force swiftly deployed an aerial surveillance platform immediately after the abduction was reported. He said the operation has continued to provide critical intelligence to assist security agencies in tracking developments and coordinating search-and-rescue efforts.
Makinde noted that intelligence gathered from the surveillance missions has remained vital in supporting ongoing operations to secure the safe release of the victims. He also appealed to residents for patience and cooperation, assuring them that all necessary resources are being deployed to resolve the situation.
He commended the Chief of the Air Staff and the Nigerian Air Force for their prompt response and sustained support, adding that the Air Force made its surveillance platform available while Oyo State’s newly acquired aerial assets are still being assembled at the NAF Base in Lagos. He explained that the state acquired the platforms after consultations with the Air Force to ensure access to maintenance, engineering expertise, and pilot training, expressing confidence that the assets would significantly strengthen security operations once fully operational.
Speaking on behalf of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Suleh reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to supporting ongoing rescue efforts and working closely with other security agencies to secure the safe return of the abducted victims.
He also acknowledged the Oyo State Government’s support for Air Force projects and infrastructure development within the state.
The pupils and teachers were abducted on 15 May during an attack on Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, Community Grammar School, Esiele, and L.A. Primary School. One teacher was killed in captivity by the abductors.
The incident has since triggered nationwide protests by teachers and civil society groups in Ibadan, calling for urgent action to rescue the victims.
Meanwhile, the House of Representatives has urged the federal government and security agencies to intensify efforts to ensure the safe return of all abducted students and teachers.
Following the incident, President Bola Tinubu approved the deployment of 1,000 forest guards and a special rescue team to support ongoing security operations in the affected areas.
NAF Provides Aerial Surveillance in Search for Abducted Oyo School Pupils and Teachers
