Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has announced the arrival of the two Diamond DA42 MNG surveillance aircraft procured by his administration to strengthen security surveillance and intelligence gathering across the state.
The governor made the announcement on his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Tuesday, describing the delivery as a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to improve security and protect lives and property.
“Today, we took delivery of the two DA42MN-G aircraft procured by our administration for security surveillance and reconnaissance missions in Oyo State.
“We are grateful to the officers of the Nigerian Air Force who have provided support and guidance throughout this process, and we look forward to continued collaboration on the security of our dear State and nation,” Makinde wrote.
The two surveillance aircraft arrived at the Ibadan Airport after months of anticipation. Their delivery had initially been scheduled for the end of July following assembly delays.
The Diamond DA42 MNG aircraft, valued at approximately ₦7.76 billion, are specially designed for aerial intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance operations. Equipped with advanced monitoring technology, the aircraft are expected to provide real-time intelligence to security agencies, enhance rapid response to security threats and improve coordination of operations across Oyo State.
According to the Oyo State Government, the aircraft will play a strategic role in supporting security operations, particularly along the state’s borders with Kwara State and the Benin Republic, areas considered vulnerable to the movement of criminal elements.
The procurement forms part of the Makinde administration’s broader investment in security infrastructure aimed at strengthening the capacity of security agencies and ensuring the safety of residents.
The governor has consistently maintained that security remains one of the critical pillars of his administration, noting that sustainable economic growth and investment can only thrive in a peaceful and secure environment.
The arrival of the surveillance aircraft is expected to further enhance intelligence-led policing, aerial monitoring and coordinated security operations across Oyo State as the government continues its collaboration with the Nigerian Air Force and other security agencies.
