Emmanuel lkpeama
Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has unveiled two state-of-the-art security drones, declaring zero tolerance for insecurity.
The HP-20 drones can operate in difficult terrains, provide real-time intelligence, and enable precision-led security operations.
The unveiling ceremony, held at the Chari Maigumeri Barracks, Lokoja, drew top military commanders, security stakeholders, and Government officials, marking another remarkable height in Governor Ododo’s technology-driven security agenda.
Ododo stated that the deployment will improve coordination among security agencies and allow faster deployment of forces.
He warned that time is running out for those who threaten public peace, while affirming that his government is fully prepared to confront and defeat all criminal elements operating within the state.
“These priority drones have advanced surveillance, monitoring, and response capabilities. They can operate in difficult terrains, provide real-time intelligence, enable precision-led operations against terrorists, and offer early detection of suspicious movements,” Ododo stated.
According to him, the deployment will significantly improve coordination among security agencies and allow faster, intelligence-driven deployment of forces across the state.
The Governor emphasised that the investment marks a major leap forward in strengthening Kogi State’s security architecture, stressing that his administration remains resolute in its determination to protect every community.
“Let me be very clear: this administration won’t falter. We won’t surrender our communities. We won’t allow bandits or terrorists to take over any part of our land. The government must be in charge, not bandits, not kidnappers,” he declared.
Highlighting Kogi State’s strategic importance as the gateway between Northern and Southern Nigeria, Governor Ododo noted that the state’s forests and border communities had previously been targeted by criminal elements migrating from other regions.
“We studied these threats carefully, and we responded with action not excuses,” he said.
Reflecting on his administration’s record, Ododo revealed that over the last two years, Kogi State has built a robust security framework anchored on technology deployment, community participation, inter-agency cooperation, and strong political will.
“Today, Kogi State ranks among the most peaceful states in Nigeria, and our goal is clear to make it the safest state in the country,” he added.
Earlier, the Commander, 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, Lokoja, Brigadier General K.U. Sidi, described the deployment of the drones as a game changer,noting that it places Kogi State at the forefront of security innovation and operational efficiency.
The Chief of Army Staff, Major General Waidi Shuaibu represented by Brigadier General O.S. Abai, Director of Transformation and Innovation at Army Headquarters, also reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to Kogi State’s security.
He highlighted the recent establishment and deployment of the 21 Battalion Nigerian Army to the state as a strategic intervention to reinforce troop presence and improve rapid response to security threats.
Investigator news reports that stakeholders and residents across the state have welcomed the initiative, describing it as a bold reassurance of the government’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property
