The Kogi State Government has taken a decisive step in its fight against insecurity with the deployment of two high-capacity PH20 surveillance drones designed to boost intelligence gathering and strengthen security operations across the state.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo unveiled the drones on Monday at the 12 Brigade Headquarters, Chari Maigumeri Barracks, Lokoja, describing the move as a bold statement of his administration’s resolve to deny criminal elements any operational space within the state.
According to the governor, the deployment reflects a governing philosophy anchored on firm leadership, territorial dominance, and zero tolerance for criminality. He stressed that the safety of lives and property remains the foremost responsibility of his administration.
The PH20 drones, Ododo explained, are equipped with advanced surveillance and response capabilities that enable real-time intelligence gathering, terrain mapping, and precision-led operations. The technology allows security agencies to penetrate forest hideouts, monitor movement corridors, track criminal logistics, and respond swiftly to emerging threats.
“These drones give us early warning, faster response, and better coordination. With this capability, criminals have no place to hide in Kogi State,” the governor declared.
He warned that the government would neither negotiate with criminals nor cede any part of the state to banditry, terrorism, or kidnapping. Highlighting Kogi’s strategic position as the gateway between northern and southern Nigeria, Ododo said his administration has chosen proactive security investment over reactive measures.
The governor noted that the drone deployment builds on sustained security reforms implemented over the past two years. These include the establishment of security structures in all 239 political wards, the absorption of 2,752 Vigilante Service personnel into the civil service, and the recruitment of hunters across the state’s 21 local government areas to support forest and rural operations.
He added that the government has also equipped security agencies with patrol vehicles, operational vans, motorcycles, bulletproof vests, helmets, communication gadgets, and a fully functional Quick Response Unit, leading to the recovery of areas previously threatened by criminal activity.
Governor Ododo commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support on national security and praised the collaboration among security agencies, which he said has significantly improved intelligence-sharing and operational success.
Representing the Chief of Army Staff, Major General Waidi Shaibu, Major General Olusegun Abai described the drone deployment as consistent with global best practices, while other security chiefs and traditional rulers pledged continued cooperation in safeguarding the state.
The unveiling, officials said, positions Kogi State as a pacesetter in the technology-driven fight against insecurity.
Kogi Deploys Surveillance Drones, Steps Up Technology-Driven War on Insecurity
