In a bold stride towards enhanced security and development, the Oyo State Government has announced the acquisition of two state-of-the-art surveillance aircraft and rolled out massive infrastructure projects worth over ₦134 billion, signaling a new phase of proactive governance in the state.
The government’s procurement of the two DA 42 MNG light aircraft, advanced Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) planes equipped with high-tech tracking systems, marks a strategic response to growing security concerns, particularly in the state’s sprawling hinterlands where illegal mining, kidnapping, and banditry remain active threats.
Announcing the development on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, after an Executive Council meeting, the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, said the decision reflects the administration’s unrelenting commitment to fortify internal security and preempt the infiltration of bandits into the state.
“Though Oyo State has remained relatively peaceful compared to other states, we will not allow complacency. These aircraft will bolster our surveillance capacity and support ground operations against criminal elements,” Oyelade declared.
He noted that the two ISR aircraft, each valued at part of the total ₦7.76 billion investment, offer a cost-effective alternative to helicopters.
Beyond affordability and easy maintenance, their compatibility with existing Nigerian Air Force assets enables stronger inter-agency synergy.
Oyo State, the largest in Southern Nigeria with a landmass of 28,454 square kilometers, larger than ten African countries, is strategically positioning itself as a regional security model.
The new aircraft are expected to significantly support the operations of the Amotekun Corps and other security agencies across the state.
Oyelade emphasised that Oyo’s Amotekun outfit remains the most equipped and structured among South West states, with 2,500 personnel, 181 vehicles, 450 motorcycles, and the highest salary structure where the least-paid officer earns ₦116,000 monthly.
Beyond security, the Executive Council also approved a series of transformative infrastructure projects under the administration’s strategic development agenda.
Top among them is the continuation of the ambitious 110-kilometre Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road project, with ₦83.04 billion earmarked for constructing bridges, interchanges, and clearing the North-East and South-West sections, spanning Molarere, Odo-Oba, and Abiola Ajimobi Technical University corridors.
The Council pledged to deliver 72 kilometres of the road before the administration winds down in 2027.
Other major projects approved include:
- ₦36.35 billion for asphaltic reconstruction of key roads such as the Secretariat Road, Trans-Amusement UI–Sango Road, and Obafemi Awolowo Stadium Road.
- ₦6.80 billion for the reconstruction of the Mobil–Oluyole Industrial Estate road network.
- ₦595 million for direct intervention in the operations and maintenance of the Light-up Oyo Solar Project, with an ongoing monthly maintenance cost of ₦190 million.
Prince Oyelade stressed that these initiatives collectively demonstrate Governor Seyi Makinde’s unwavering resolve to drive security, infrastructure, and energy development simultaneously, placing Oyo State ahead in both governance innovation and regional leadership.
As the projects roll out, residents can expect improved mobility, stronger security presence, and sustainable energy interventions, hallmarks of an administration determined to deliver lasting impact.
