The Kogi State Government on Monday introduced two HP-20 State Asset Drones as part of renewed efforts to combat insecurity, including banditry, across the state.
Governor Usman Ododo unveiled the drones at the Chari Maigumeri Barracks, describing the development as a strategic move to maintain peace and prevent criminal groups from gaining a foothold in any part of Kogi State.
According to a statement issued by the government, the event took place in Lokoja and was attended by senior military officers, security stakeholders, and top government officials, underscoring the administration’s commitment to technology-driven security solutions.
Addressing attendees, Governor Ododo explained that the drones are equipped with advanced surveillance, monitoring, and rapid-response technology capable of gathering real-time intelligence and supporting precise security operations, even in difficult and hard-to-reach areas.
“These drones are designed to operate effectively in challenging terrains. They provide real-time intelligence, allow for targeted operations against criminal elements, and help in the early detection of suspicious activities,” the governor said.
He noted that the deployment would improve coordination among security agencies and enable quicker, intelligence-based deployment of personnel across the state.
Governor Ododo stressed that his administration remains resolute in confronting insecurity, declaring that criminals would not be allowed to overrun communities in the state.
“We will not retreat. We will not hand over our communities to bandits or terrorists. Authority must rest with the government, not criminals or kidnappers,” he stated.
The governor further reaffirmed the government’s readiness to eliminate threats to public safety, warning criminal elements that their time in the state was running out.
He also drew attention to Kogi State’s strategic location as a link between Northern and Southern Nigeria, noting that its forests and border communities had previously attracted criminal groups moving in from other regions.
“We assessed the threats carefully and responded decisively. We chose action over excuses,” he said.
Reviewing his administration’s achievements, Governor Ododo said that over the past two years, the state has developed a strong security architecture based on technology, community involvement, inter-agency collaboration, and firm political leadership.
He added that Kogi State now ranks among the most peaceful states in the country, with the administration aiming to make it the safest in Nigeria.
The Commander of the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army in Lokoja, Brigadier General K.U. Sidi, described the drone deployment as a major breakthrough that places Kogi State at the forefront of security innovation.
Also speaking at the event, Brigadier General O.S. Abai, Director of Transformation and Innovation at Army Headquarters, represented the Chief of Army Staff, Major General Waidi Shuaibu. He reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to the state’s security and highlighted the recent establishment and deployment of the 21 Battalion as a strategic move to strengthen troop presence and improve rapid response.
Residents and stakeholders across the state have applauded the initiative, describing it as a strong signal of the government’s determination to protect lives and property.
