By Oiza Bello
Kogi State Government says it has procured two HP-20 security drones to strengthen the protection of lives and property across the state.
Unveiling the drones at the Chari Maigumeri Barracks in Lokoja, Governor Usman Ododo described the acquisition as a clear demonstration of his administration’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and security of every citizen.
According to the Governor, the HP-20 drones are equipped with advanced surveillance, monitoring, and response capabilities, enabling them to operate effectively in difficult terrains, penetrate forested hideouts, support real-time intelligence gathering, and, where necessary, facilitate precision-led operations against terrorists and bandits.
Governor Ododo noted that criminal activities are evolving, making it imperative to strengthen the state’s security architecture through the deployment of modern technology.
He said the use of drones would enhance early detection of suspicious movements, improve coordination among security agencies, and enable faster, intelligence-driven responses, ensuring that criminals have no hiding place anywhere in the state.
He reaffirmed that his administration would neither submit to criminality nor negotiate with criminals, stressing that bandits and terrorists would not be allowed to gain control of any part of the state.
The Governor expressed his heartfelt sympathy to the families of security personnel and others who lost their lives while combating criminal activities and prayed for the repose of their souls.
Governor Ododo also appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to national security and his strong support and special interest in ensuring a safe and secure Kogi State.
He further commended the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff, the Chief of Naval Staff, the Chief of Air Staff, the Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency, the Inspector-General of Police, the Director-General of the Department of State Services, and the Commandant-General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps for their sustained collaboration and support toward successful security operations in the state.
In an address Commander of the 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, Lokoja, Brigadier General Kassid Sidi, assured the Governor that the drones would be deployed strictly for their intended purpose.
He noted that the equipment would significantly enhance the state’s security framework and further strengthen inter-agency collaboration toward achieving a safer state.
Similarly, the Chief of Army Staff, Major General Waidi Shuaibu, represented by Brigadier General O.S. Abai, Director of Transformation and Innovation at Army Headquarters, reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to the security of Kogi State.
He highlighted the recent establishment and deployment of the 21 Battalion of the Nigerian Army to the state as a strategic intervention aimed at reinforcing troop presence and improving rapid response to security threats.
Edited by Ajifa Ainoko
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