Oyo State Gets N7.7 Billion Surveillance Aircraft for Better Security

The Oyo State Government has received two surveillance aircraft worth about N7.76 billion. This delivery comes more than a year after the state announced plans to buy them to boost security operations.

The Diamond DA42 Multi-Purpose Platform aircraft landed at the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport in Ibadan on Tuesday.

This delivery happens as more state governments invest in security tools to help federal agencies. There are ongoing worries about kidnapping, banditry, and other violent crimes across the country. Oyo State, like many others in the South-west, has faced kidnappings and attacks on highways and in rural areas. This has led to more investment in smart security operations.

The Oyo State Government first revealed plans to acquire these aircraft in July 2025. They called them Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) platforms. The goal is to improve the state's ability to spot and deal with security threats.

At that time, the Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, said the aircraft would work alongside the Western Nigeria Security Network, known as Amotekun, and other security bodies. They will provide aerial intelligence to track crime and identify targets from high and low altitudes.

On Tuesday, Mr Oyelade announced the aircraft's arrival. He said this marks another step forward in the state's efforts to boost security through technology and aerial monitoring.

He mentioned that the aircraft will help security agencies, including the Amotekun Corps and other groups. They will monitor criminal activities, enhance surveillance, and improve quick response efforts across Oyo State and its neighbors.

The state government stated the aircraft come with advanced surveillance systems meant for gathering intelligence. They expect these systems to improve teamwork among security agencies during their operations.