Attack: Chinese Technical Experts Arrive To Assemble Surveillance Aircraft In Oyo

Chinese technical experts have arrived in Nigeria and begun the assembly of surveillance aircraft procured by the Oyo State Government, as the state intensifies security measures following the recent attack on schools in Oriire Local Government Area.

The aircraft are currently being assembled at the Nigerian Air Force hangar in Lagos as part of the state’s broader security enhancement strategy.

Governor Seyi Makinde, while briefing journalists in Ibadan on the school attack, said the aircraft are expected to become fully operational before the end of June.

He said once completed, the aircraft would be deployed for aerial surveillance of strategic locations, including border communities between Oyo and Kwara States, as well as Nigeria’s international boundary with the Republic of Benin.

According to him, the initiative is aimed at improving monitoring and response to security threats across vulnerable areas in the state.

The development comes amid heightened security concerns following the abduction of 32 pupils and teachers during an attack on schools in Oriire, an incident that has triggered intensified rescue operations by security agencies.

Makinde said the foreign technicians arrived in Nigeria a few days ago and are expected to complete installation and testing within two weeks.

He explained that the surveillance aircraft project was conceived long before the recent abduction incident, noting that it forms part of his administration’s long-term plan to strengthen security architecture and border surveillance.

“The surveillance aircraft have arrived in the country. As of today, they are at the Nigerian Air Force hangar in Lagos being reassembled. The manufacturer from China arrived in the country about three days ago,” Makinde said.

“They should have about two weeks to finish their work. So, I can say conclusively that those surveillance aircraft should be in operation on or before the end of June,” he added.

Makinde stressed that the project was not a reaction to the recent incident, but part of a broader security strategy.

“We didn’t procure the aircraft because of this particular incident, but we wanted to improve our security capability and border monitoring,” he said.

He added that the aircraft would be deployed to monitor the Oyo-Kwara border and the international boundary between Oyo State and the Republic of Benin to tackle emerging security threats.

Speaking further on the abduction, the governor reiterated that the state would not surrender to terror, assuring that efforts were ongoing to secure the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers.

He confirmed that seven students had been conclusively identified as abducted, while coordinated rescue operations involving security agencies were still ongoing.

“We will not give in to terror. We will do everything possible to ensure that our children and their teachers are returned safely,” Makinde said.

He also said the government was willing to engage in dialogue if it would help secure the immediate release of the victims, adding that the safety of the abductees remained the priority.

Makinde urged residents to support security agencies with credible information and encouraged vigilance within communities.

“If you see something strange, say something, and expect us to do something,” he said.

He further cautioned against sensational reporting of the incident, stressing that operational details must be handled carefully to protect ongoing rescue efforts.

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring peace and strengthening security across Oyo State.