The Oyo State Government has approved the procurement of two Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) aircraft at a cost of ₦7.76 billion as part of intensified efforts to strengthen security across the state.
Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, disclosed this in a statement issued after the State Executive Council meeting held on Tuesday. He said the move was aimed at addressing rising security threats including illegal mining, kidnapping, and banditry, especially across the vast interland of Oyo State.
According to Oyelade, the aircraft, DA 42 MNG models, are equipped with advanced surveillance systems capable of detecting targets at both high and low altitudes. He added that the preference for these aircraft over helicopters was due to lower maintenance costs, availability of spare parts, and compatibility with existing Nigeria Air Force assets, enabling potential synergy.
He noted that Oyo State, with a landmass of 28,454 square kilometers—larger than ten African countries—requires strategic surveillance capabilities. The two aircraft will provide critical support to the Amotekun Corps and other security agencies in locating and dismantling criminal hideouts.
Prince Oyelade emphasized that Amotekun in Oyo State remains the most equipped among all South West Security Networks, with 2,500 personnel, 181 operational vehicles, and 450 motorcycles. He also noted that the corps boasts the highest salary structure in the region, with the lowest-paid personnel earning ₦116,000 monthly.
Massive Infrastructure Boost: ₦83bn for Circular Road, ₦36bn for Road Rehabilitation
In addition to the security initiative, the Executive Council also approved major infrastructural projects including the construction of bridges, interchanges, and clearing of the Northeast and Southwest corridors of the 110-kilometre Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road. The projects, covering the Molarere, Odo-Oba, and Abiola Ajimobi Technical University axis, will cost ₦83.04 billion.
The government pledged that 72km of the circular road would be completed before the end of the current administration in 2027.
Other approved road projects include:
Asphaltic rehabilitation of the Secretariat Road, Trans Amusement–UI–Sango Road, and Obafemi Awolowo Stadium Road at a total cost of ₦36.35 billion.
Reconstruction of the Mobil–Oluyole Industrial Estate road network, budgeted at ₦6.80 billion.
₦595m Intervention in Light-Up Oyo Project
The Council also approved a ₦595 million direct intervention for the operations and maintenance of the Light-Up Oyo Solar Project, aimed at enhancing nighttime visibility and security in urban and rural areas. Additionally, the government will commit ₦190 million monthly to sustain the project’s operations.
Prince Oyelade noted that Oyo State now records an average of 18,459 visitors daily, a surge that reflects growing investor and tourist interest, particularly in the hospitality sector. He affirmed that the government would continue to prioritize infrastructure and security to support economic growth and public safety.
