……Inspects 21 Battalion Barracks in Anyigba, Commends Troops for Restoring Peace in Kogi East.
Emmanuel Ikpeama
Governor Usman Ododo of Kogi State has reaffirmed his administration’s determination to rid the state of criminal elements, declaring that Kogi is no longer a safe haven for kidnappers, armed robbers and other criminal groups.
The governor made the declaration during an inspection visit to the newly established 21 Battalion Barracks in Anyigba, where he assessed operational facilities and interacted with officers and soldiers deployed to strengthen security in Kogi East.
Ododo used the occasion to commend President Bola Tinubu for his unwavering commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture through strategic investments and support for security agencies across the country.
According to the governor, the establishment of the military formation in Anyigba has significantly improved security in Kogi East, leading to a sharp decline in kidnapping, armed robbery, communal clashes and other criminal activities that previously threatened peace and economic development in the area.
Expressing satisfaction with the operational readiness of the troops, Ododo praised the officers and men of the Nigerian Army for their dedication, courage and sacrifices in protecting lives and property.
“I am here today to appreciate our gallant officers and soldiers who continue to make enormous sacrifices to keep our communities safe. Since the arrival of this battalion, the security situation in Kogi East has improved tremendously. Cases of kidnapping, armed robbery and other criminal activities have reduced significantly,” the governor said.
He stressed that the ongoing collaboration between the state government and security agencies has made Kogi increasingly hostile to criminal elements.
“Criminals now know that Kogi State is not a fertile ground for their operations. There is no market for criminality anywhere in our state, and we will continue to confront them until they have no hiding place,” he declared.
Ododo further lauded President Tinubu for providing critical support to states in the fight against insecurity, noting that the President has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to securing lives and property across the federation.
According to him, effective security management requires close cooperation between the Federal Government and state governments, describing sub-national administrations as partners in the collective effort to tackle crime and safeguard communities.
The governor also disclosed that the Federal Government has approved the provision of air support whenever required for security operations, describing the intervention as a major boost to ongoing efforts aimed at combating criminal activities.
He acknowledged the contributions of the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Chief of Army Staff, the Inspector-General of Police, the Director-General of the Department of State Services and other security chiefs for their coordinated efforts in restoring peace and stability in Kogi State.
Reiterating his administration’s commitment to security, Ododo assured residents that his government would continue to invest heavily in measures designed to protect lives and property.
“No amount of resources is too much when it comes to saving lives. Security remains our top priority because without peace and security, meaningful development cannot take place,” he said.
The governor also commended the Commanding Officer of the 21 Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Godiya Solomon Monday, for his leadership and dedication to duty, while praising officers and soldiers of the battalion for their patriotism and selfless service to the nation.
“You are rendering invaluable service to Nigeria. While your sacrifices may never be fully repaid, history will remember your commitment and dedication. We are proud of you and will continue to stand firmly behind you,” he stated.
Ododo assured military authorities of the Kogi State Government’s continued support, especially as farmers prepare for the planting season, emphasizing the need to sustain existing security gains and protect farming communities from criminal threats.
He urged the troops to remain vigilant and focused on their mandate, expressing confidence that the combined efforts of the Federal Government, the military and other security agencies would ultimately eliminate threats to peace and stability across Kogi State.