The Oyo State Executive Council has approved the sum of N7.7 billion for the purchase of two aircraft as part of efforts to strengthen the fight against banditry, kidnapping, and other security challenges across the state.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Wednesday in Ibadan by the Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade. He said the approval was granted during the council’s weekly meeting held on Tuesday.
According to Oyelade, the decision reflects the government’s renewed commitment to safeguarding the state against the rising influx of criminal elements and their activities.
“The two light aircraft, DA 42 MNG model, to be procured, are Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) aircrafts, with sophisticated surveillance gadgets capable of identifying targets from high and low altitudes,” he stated.
He explained that the state opted for the aircraft over helicopters due to their cost-effectiveness and operational advantages.
“The preference for these aircraft instead of helicopters is because they are less expensive to maintain.
“Its spare parts are accessible, and also, as the Nigeria Air Force possesses a number of the model, which gives room for synergy,” the commissioner said.
Oyelade also noted that despite the relative peace across the state, isolated incidents of kidnapping and banditry persist in some areas, prompting the need for intensified aerial surveillance and rapid response capabilities.
