JUST IN: Seyi Makinde Receives Surveillance Aircraft to Strengthen State Security, Enhance Crime-Fighting Operations—-Governor Seyi Makinde says the advanced intelligence aircraft will strengthen security operations, enhance aerial surveillance and improve the fight against kidnapping, banditry and other crimes across Oyo State.

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has officially taken delivery of the state’s long-awaited surveillance aircraft, describing the acquisition as a major milestone in his administration’s efforts to strengthen security and protect lives and property across the state.

The aircraft, a Diamond DA42 MNG Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) platform, arrived after months of manufacturing and assembly, with the governor saying it would significantly enhance intelligence gathering and provide real-time aerial support for security agencies operating across Oyo’s vast terrain.

According to the state government, the surveillance aircraft is equipped with advanced imaging and reconnaissance technology capable of monitoring forests, border communities, mining sites and other remote locations frequently exploited by kidnappers, bandits and other criminal elements. Officials said the platform will complement ground operations by providing security agencies with actionable intelligence and improving rapid response capabilities.

Makinde noted that the aircraft forms part of a broader strategy to modernise Oyo State’s security architecture through technology-driven policing and closer collaboration with the Nigerian Air Force, Amotekun Corps and other security agencies. He explained that intelligence gathered from aerial surveillance would enable security operatives to track criminal movements more effectively and coordinate operations across difficult terrain.

The governor also revealed that the aircraft will play a critical role in monitoring the state’s borders with neighbouring states and the Republic of Benin, areas authorities have identified as vulnerable routes for criminal activities. Beyond security operations, the aircraft is expected to support disaster response, environmental monitoring and emergency management when required.

The acquisition comes amid heightened security concerns in Oyo State following recent incidents of kidnapping, including the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area. Makinde previously expressed regret that the surveillance aircraft was not operational during the rescue mission but said its deployment would greatly enhance future operations against criminal groups.

State officials disclosed that Oyo invested about ₦7.76 billion in procuring the surveillance aircraft as part of its long-term security strategy. The government believes the investment will improve intelligence-led policing, strengthen inter-agency cooperation and reinforce public confidence in efforts to tackle insecurity across the state.

Governor Makinde reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to deploying modern technology in safeguarding residents, stressing that security remains a top priority. He added that the aircraft would become fully operational immediately after final integration and testing, marking a new chapter in Oyo State’s fight against crime and insecurity.

UBA, GTCO Lose ₦2.13 billion To Fraudsters Despite Heavy Cybersecurity Investments—-Three of Nigeria’s largest financial institutions have reported combined fraud-related losses of approximately ₦2.13 billion in their latest audited financial statements, highlighting the growing threat of cybercrime and electronic banking fraud in the country’s financial sector.

The affected institutions include Access Holdings Plc, Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc, and United Bank for Africa Plc.

According to details contained in the banks’ 2025 financial reports, fraud incidents linked to the three lenders totalled approximately ₦10.29 billion. However, through recoveries, transaction reversals, and security interventions, the banks were able to prevent or recover about ₦8.16 billion, leaving actual losses at approximately ₦2.13 billion.

Among the banks, Access Holdings recorded the highest direct loss to fraudsters, losing an estimated ₦1.24 billion within the financial year.

United Bank for Africa reported over 26,400 fraud-related incidents, with actual losses totalling approximately ₦621.57 million, while Guaranty Trust Holding Company recorded approximately ₦269.44 million in losses tied to fraudulent activities.

Industry analysts say the figures reflect the increasing sophistication of cybercriminals targeting Nigeria’s rapidly expanding digital banking ecosystem.

Most of the fraud cases were reportedly connected to electronic banking channels, including unauthorised transfers, mobile banking compromise, phishing schemes, identity theft, and other forms of digital payment fraud.

The development comes as Nigerian banks continue to accelerate the country’s transition toward a cashless economy through mobile banking platforms, internet banking services, agency banking networks, and digital payment systems.

Despite the losses, the financial institutions significantly increased investments in technology infrastructure and cybersecurity measures during the year under review.

Collectively, the banks reportedly spent over ₦280 billion on technology upgrades, fraud monitoring systems, customer authentication processes, and transaction security enhancements aimed at reducing cyber threats and protecting customer funds.

Meanwhile, the Central Bank of Nigeria has also intensified regulatory efforts to curb financial fraud across the banking industry.

The apex bank recently introduced stricter compliance measures requiring financial institutions to strengthen fraud detection systems, improve transaction monitoring, and respond more rapidly to suspicious activities and customer complaints.

Financial experts have warned that as digital banking adoption continues to rise across Nigeria, banks and customers alike must remain vigilant against increasingly advanced cybercrime tactics targeting the financial sector