By Oyo State strengthens security and infrastructure with ₦7.7bn surveillance aircraft and over ₦92bn in development projects
- Oyo Government procures two high-tech aircraft to combat insecurity across its vast terrain
- Over ₦92bn allocated for roadworks, power projects, and economic infrastructure under Omituntun 2.0
- State positions itself as a rising economic hub with investments in agribusiness, tourism, and industrial zones
Ibadan, Nigeria – The Oyo State Government has intensified efforts to tackle insecurity and accelerate development with the approval of ₦7.76 billion for the procurement of two surveillance aircraft, alongside a sweeping infrastructure investment strategy exceeding ₦92 billion, as part of Governor Seyi Makinde’s broader Omituntun 2.0 agenda.
Announced by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, after the State Executive Council meeting on 9 July 2025, the initiative includes the acquisition of two DA 42 MNG ISR aircraft, a strategic decision aimed at boosting security surveillance and pre-emptive responses to crimes such as kidnapping, banditry, and illegal mining, particularly in Oyo’s expansive hinterlands.
The procurement of the DA 42 MNG aircraft is in direct response to rising threats in rural and forested areas of the state, despite Oyo’s relative peace in comparison to other Nigerian states. The aircraft are equipped with sophisticated Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) technology, capable of identifying and tracking threats from both high and low altitudes. They are expected to work in tandem with the Amotekun corps, local police, and federal security agencies to monitor, locate, and dismantle criminal operations.
Prince Oyelade emphasised the choice of aircraft over helicopters due to lower maintenance costs, ready availability of spare parts, and compatibility with Nigerian Air Force operations, allowing for potential inter-agency synergy.
This initiative follows an earlier announcement by Governor Makinde in April 2025, in which he also revealed plans to establish airstrips in Otu and Igbeti, further enabling aerial surveillance and rapid response capacity.
The Executive Council also approved a comprehensive infrastructure package, including ₦83.04 billion for continued work on the Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road, including new bridges, interchanges, and land clearance across the Molarere, Odo-Oba, and Abiola Ajimobi Technical University corridor, ₦2.3 billion for road improvements on Secretariat Road, UI-Sango-Trans Amusement Road, and Obafemi Awolowo Stadium Road, ₦6.8 billion for completing the Mobil–Oluyole Industrial Estate Road network, aimed at supporting industrial growth, and ₦595 million for the Light-up Oyo Solar Project’s direct intervention, alongside a monthly operational budget of ₦190 million for sustainable maintenance.
The Government aims to complete at least 72km of the 110km Circular Road project before the current administration ends its term in 2027. This aligns with Governor Makinde’s long-standing mantra that “where roads go, development follows.” Over the past two years, the administration has reportedly constructed over 368.9km of roads across all zones of the state.
As part of its economic diversification strategy, the State has attracted ₦46.6 billion in agribusiness investments, which have supported 46,000 smallholder farmers, driven development of the Eruwa Agribusiness Industrial Hub, and advanced livestock transformation initiatives in Fasola. These investments are geared toward food security, employment generation, and value chain development.
Tourism has also flourished, aided by improved security and infrastructure. The number of hospitality businesses in Oyo State grew from 1,328 in 2019 to 12,128 by the end of 2024, spurring an average daily influx of 18,459 visitors, according to data from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. The sector’s growth is credited in part to the creation of the ministry in 2023, aimed at harnessing Oyo’s cultural assets.
The state is also working to upgrade the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport, with the first phase due for completion in October 2025, and is expanding rural road networks to connect farming communities and ease transport logistics.
The integration of modern surveillance tools with robust ground operations reflects the State’s philosophy that security is the bedrock of sustainable development. The new ISR aircraft are expected to enhance protection of agricultural corridors, industrial zones, and interstate roads, making the environment more attractive for local and foreign investment.
Governor Makinde’s administration has also supported creative industries with initiatives like the AFRICHATTA and Kunle Afolayan Film Villages, bolstering the image of Oyo as a creative and industrial hub in the South West.
Public sentiment has largely welcomed the Government’s proactive stance, with many users on social media praising the foresight and scale of the projects. However, analysts have noted that the high cost of the surveillance aircraft, while justifiable for security, must be matched by effective integration and long-term cost-efficiency to avoid financial strain.
Equally, the scope of infrastructure investments, while impressive, raises questions about equity in distribution, particularly for underserved rural communities. The success of these initiatives will depend on transparent execution, inter-agency cooperation, and sustained public engagement.
Oyo State’s multi-pronged approach to security, infrastructure, agriculture, and tourism signals a strategic drive towards economic transformation and improved governance. With a blend of cutting-edge technology and physical development, the Makinde administration appears set on redefining the landscape of governance in Oyo, even as stakeholders watch closely for effective implementation and tangible results before the 2027 finish line.
