- Odibo Victory
The Governor of Oyo state, Seyi Makinde, has taken delivery of surveillance helicopters aimed at strengthening security across the state.
Makinde stated that the acquisition was part of his administration’s strategy to complement security personnel on the ground.
Speaking while receiving the aircraft, Makinde said the decision to purchase the helicopters was informed by Oyo State’s vast land mass, noting that security challenges require both ground and aerial surveillance.
“When we took the decision to purchase this surveillance aircraft, it was because of the sheer land mass of Oyo State.
“We knew that we had to complement our boots on the ground,” he said.
Makinde also addressed criticisms over the timing of the aircraft’s arrival, particularly following the recent security incident in Orire, stating that the procurement was not in response to the attack but part of a long-term security plan.
“We didn’t know Orire was going to happen. I’ve seen people criticise us, saying, ‘Where is the aircraft now that they require it at Orire?’
“But we planned for the aircraft so that we would be able to cover as much of the land mass of Oyo State as possible within the shortest possible time,” he said.
Expressing satisfaction over the arrival of the helicopters, the governor said the aircraft would enhance the state’s capacity to respond swiftly to security threats.
“I am glad that it is here, and I believe we will always do what is right in the interest of our people because, in an atmosphere of insecurity, you can hardly do anything,” he added.
Makinde further disclosed that the surveillance helicopters would be operated in collaboration with the Nigerian Air Force, revealing that his administration had signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with them.
“You could see that the aircraft were flown by Air Force pilots. We have negotiated an MoU with the Nigerian Air Force, and we should be working on this together,” he said.
The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property, assuring residents that the government would continue to prioritise their safety.
“My message to the people of Oyo State is that their government will always be there to serve them,” Makinde said.