BY Muslimat Itopa
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting security agencies, declaring that no amount of resources is too much to invest in protecting lives and securing communities across the state.
Governor Ododo made the declaration during the inspection of the new 21 Battalion Barracks Anyimba in Dekina Local Government Area of Kogi State.
Addressing officers and men of the Nigerian Army, the Governor commended their sacrifices and dedication in combating insecurity, noting that their presence in Kogi East has significantly reduced cases of kidnapping, armed robbery, communal clashes, and other criminal activities in the area.
He expressed appreciation to the gallant officers for their unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property, saying residents can now sleep with greater peace of mind due to the improved security situation.
According to him, the present administration will continue to deploy resources toward security operations because the protection of human lives remains a top priority.
The Governor stressed that under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Federal Government has demonstrated strong commitment to supporting sub-national governments in tackling insecurity, adding that the President has approved critical interventions, including the provision of air support whenever required for security operations.
He noted that criminal elements have come to realize that Kogi State is no longer a safe haven for their activities, emphasizing that the state government, in collaboration with the military, police, Department of State Services, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and other security agencies, is determined to eliminate all forms of criminality.
Governor Ododo dismissed criticisms regarding government expenditure on security, insisting that every kobo spent on protecting lives and property is justified.
“No amount of resources will be too much to save a soul,” the Governor said, maintaining that the safety and wellbeing of citizens must take precedence over political considerations.
He particularly commended the Commanding Officer of the military formation in Anyigba, Lieutenant Colonel Godiya Monday for his leadership and dedication, which he said have contributed significantly to the relative peace currently being enjoyed in Kogi East.
He urged the troops to sustain the momentum in the ongoing operations against kidnappers, bandits, and other criminal elements, expressing confidence that security agencies would ultimately overcome all threats to peace and stability in the state.
The inspection visit formed part of the Governor’s assessment of ongoing security infrastructure projects and efforts to strengthen the operational capacity of security agencies across Kogi State.
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