Makinde Receives NAF Delegation, Calls for Patience on Oyo Abduction

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has appealed to residents to remain patient as security agencies intensify efforts to rescue teachers and pupils abducted from Yawota and Ahoro-Esinele communities in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.

Makinde made the appeal on Friday while receiving a delegation from the Nigerian Air Force, led by Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Suleh, Air Officer Commanding Logistics Command, during a courtesy visit to the Governor’s Office in Ibadan.

The governor commended the Air Force for its support since the abduction occurred on May 15, 2026, noting that all relevant agencies have continued to work together to ensure the safe return of the victims.

According to him, although the two Diamond-42 surveillance aircraft acquired by the state government are still being assembled at the Air Force Base in Lagos, the Nigerian Air Force provided one of its surveillance aircraft to support rescue operations and intelligence gathering.

Makinde said the surveillance efforts have supplied authorities with valuable real-time information that is being utilised to facilitate the rescue mission. He added that the government understands the challenges facing security personnel on the ground and believes patience is necessary to ensure a successful operation.

The governor also praised the Chief of Air Staff and Air Force personnel for their commitment to the rescue efforts, describing their support as encouraging and instrumental in understanding the security situation.

He explained that the decision to procure the Diamond-42 aircraft was taken to strengthen security within Oyo State and neighbouring states, while complementing the efforts of federal security agencies.

Makinde further assured the Air Force of continued collaboration, including support for aircraft maintenance, pilot training, and other security-related initiatives aimed at enhancing surveillance capabilities.

Earlier, Air Vice Marshal Suleh conveyed the goodwill and assurances of the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, who was unable to attend the meeting due to another national assignment. He expressed sympathy over the abduction and reaffirmed the Air Force’s commitment to supporting efforts aimed at rescuing the victims.

The delegation also commended the Oyo State Government for its support to Air Force projects and ongoing cooperation with security agencies in the state.