By Deborah Nnamdi
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has sustained aerial surveillance operations in support of efforts to rescue teachers and pupils abducted from Yawota and Ahoro-Esinele communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, as security agencies continue the search for the victims nearly a month after their kidnapping.
The commitment was reaffirmed during a courtesy visit to Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, by representatives of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, and the Air Officer Commanding Logistics Command, Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Suleh, on June 5, 2026.
According to a statement issued by NAF spokesperson Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Governor Makinde disclosed that the Air Force swiftly deployed an aerial surveillance platform immediately after the abduction was reported. The operation, he said, has been providing vital intelligence to support ongoing search-and-rescue efforts.
Makinde explained that intelligence gathered through the surveillance missions has continued to aid security agencies in monitoring developments and coordinating operations aimed at securing the safe release of the kidnapped teachers and pupils.
The governor appealed to residents to remain patient and supportive, assuring them that authorities are deploying all available resources to ensure the victims are rescued safely.
He praised the Chief of the Air Staff and the Nigerian Air Force for their prompt intervention, noting that the surveillance platform was made available while the state’s newly acquired aerial assets are still being assembled at the NAF Base in Lagos.
Makinde further revealed that Oyo State procured the aircraft after consultations with the Air Force to guarantee access to maintenance support, engineering expertise and pilot training. He expressed confidence that the platforms would strengthen security operations across Oyo State and neighbouring states once they become fully operational.
Speaking on behalf of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Suleh expressed the Air Force’s solidarity with the Oyo State Government and residents, reiterating the service’s commitment to supporting all efforts aimed at securing the safe return of the abducted victims.
He also commended the state government for its support toward NAF projects and infrastructure development, stressing that the Air Force would continue to collaborate with other security agencies and stakeholders to protect lives and property and address security challenges across the country.
The teachers and pupils, drawn from Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Yawota, Community Grammar School in Esiele, and L.A. Primary School, were abducted on May 15 during a deadly attack by armed bandits. One of the teachers was reportedly killed while in captivity.
The incident triggered nationwide protests by teachers’ unions and demonstrations by civil society groups in Ibadan, who demanded urgent action to secure the release of the victims.
Last week, the House of Representatives called on the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to ensure the abducted teachers and students are rescued alive.
In response to the attack, President Bola Tinubu approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards and the deployment of a special rescue team to support ongoing efforts to locate and free the victims.
