Kogi Unveils Security Drones to Tackle Criminality

By Muslimat Itopa

Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, on Monday unveiled advanced security drones as part of the state’s renewed efforts to eliminate banditry, kidnapping and other forms of criminality.

The drones, identified as two PH-20 Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), have a range of up to 50 kilometres and are designed to operate in all weather conditions.

They are equipped with advanced surveillance and intelligence-gathering capabilities and can also support logistics such as food delivery to troops in forest locations and medical evacuation or assistance where necessary.

Governor Ododo described the event as a significant milestone in the state’s security architecture, stressing that the protection of lives and property remains the top priority of his administration.

“Today is an important day for Kogi State as we unveil security drones procured by the state government as part of our firm commitment to protect lives and property,” the governor said. “This is a clear statement of our resolve that the safety of every Kogite remains our top priority.”

“These drones can penetrate forest corridors, support real-time intelligence gathering and enable precision-led operations against terrorists and bandits. With this investment, criminals will have no hiding place in Kogi State,” Ododo declared.

The governor reiterated his administration’s zero-tolerance to criminality, warning that the state would not negotiate with bandits or kidnappers.

“Kogi State will not surrender any community to criminals. Government must be in charge, not bandits, not kidnappers. To the criminals, your time is running out,” he said.

Governor Ododo noted that Kogi’s strategic position as a gateway between the North and the South makes security a critical responsibility, stressing that the state has responded to threats with decisive action rather than excuses.

He highlighted achievements recorded in the last two years, including the establishment of intelligence-led security structures across the state’s 239 political wards, the absorption of 2,752 Vigilante Service personnel into the civil service, recruitment and equipping of hunters across the 21 local government areas, and sustained clearance operations in flashpoints.

The governor also listed the construction of a Quick Response Unit, procurement of patrol vehicles, motorcycles, bulletproof vests, helmets and communication gadgets as part of measures to strengthen security operations.

“Security is dynamic. As criminals evolve, we will continue to stay ahead of them. These drones will help us detect threats early, respond faster and protect our people better,” he said.

Governor Ododo who expressed sympathy with victims of criminal activities and assured residents that his government remains firmly in control thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support, as well as the National Security Adviser, service chiefs and heads of security agencies for their collaboration.

The State Security Adviser, Commander Jerry Omodara, said the acquisition of the PH-20 UAS drones and other support assets was a deliberate decision to confront terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and organised crime.

“The era of passive governance is over. The state will assert its authority and presence in every inch of its territory,” Omodara said.

He noted that the drones would provide real-time surveillance, terrain mapping and intelligence gathering, particularly in forests, border routes and other ungoverned spaces.

The State Security Adviser noted that personnel drawn from the Nigerian Army, Police and the Department of State Services had undergone over three months of rigorous training to operate and maintain the drones, ensuring inter-agency synergy.

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.Gen. W. Shuibu, represented by Major A.O. Abai commended the Kogi State Government for complementing federal efforts to address security challenges.

He said that the Nigerian Army recently deployed a new battalion, the 21 Battalion, to Kogi State to further strengthen security.

Major Abai described the acquisition of the unmanned aerial systems as a forward-looking initiative that would enhance intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, improve situational awareness and support proactive operations.

Goodwill messages were delivered by the Commander, 12 Brigade, Brigadier Kasim Sidi; the Commissioner of Police, Kogi State, CP Naziru Bello Kankarofi; and former Senator Smart Adeyemi.

They described the unveiling of the two PH-20 drones as a major milestone in the state’s security and technological advancement.

The speakers noted that the drones would boost the effectiveness of security agencies, enhance public safety and position Kogi State at the forefront of modern security management in Nigeria.