Ibadan: The Oyo State Executive Council has approved N7.7 billion for the procurement of two aircraft to combat banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of security threats in the state.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the state’s Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, announced that the procurement was approved during the weekly meeting of the council held on Tuesday. He emphasized that this decision aligns with the government’s renewed determination to secure the state against the influx of bandits and their activities.
The commissioner elaborated that the two light aircraft, DA 42 MNG model, to be acquired are Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) aircraft. These aircraft are equipped with sophisticated surveillance gadgets capable of identifying targets from both high and low altitudes. The choice of these aircraft over helicopters is due to their lower maintenance costs, accessibility of spare parts, and the existing presence of the model within the Nigeria Air Force, which facilitates cooperation.
Prince Oyelade further mentioned that the council acknowledged the presence of pockets of kidnappings and banditry in some parts of the state, despite the relative peace being enjoyed.