Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has taken delivery of two Diamond DA42 MNG surveillance aircraft procured to strengthen intelligence gathering and security operations across the state.
The aircraft arrived on Tuesday at the newly upgraded Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport in Ibadan, marking a major addition to the state’s security infrastructure.
Aircraft to Support Security Operations
Governor Makinde said the surveillance aircraft were acquired to complement security personnel on the ground and improve monitoring across Oyo’s vast territory.
“When we took the decision to purchase these surveillance aircraft, it was because of the sheer landmass and the size of our state. We knew that we had to complement the boots on the ground,” he said.
According to the governor, the aircraft will support surveillance operations, particularly along Oyo State’s borders with Kwara State and the Republic of Benin.
Partnership With Nigerian Air Force
Makinde disclosed that the aircraft would begin operations immediately under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with the Nigerian Air Force.
He explained that the aircraft were flown to Ibadan by Nigerian Air Force pilots and would be jointly deployed for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions.
“We’re hitting the ground running. We have negotiated a Memorandum of Understanding with the Nigerian Air Force, and we will be working together,” the governor added.
Advanced Surveillance Capability
The Diamond DA42 MNG aircraft are fitted with advanced surveillance technology capable of identifying targets from both high and low altitudes.
The Oyo State Government announced the purchase in July 2025, with delivery delayed due to the aircraft assembly process and final preparations before their arrival in Nigeria.
The two aircraft reportedly cost about ₦7.763 billion.
Strengthening Oyo’s Security Architecture
Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, described the delivery as the fulfilment of a major promise by the Makinde administration.
He said the aircraft would improve intelligence gathering and support the operations of security agencies, including the Western Nigeria Security Network, codenamed Amotekun, alongside other security forces.
Makinde assured residents that his administration would continue investing in initiatives aimed at protecting lives and property across Oyo State.
