From Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
The Baale of Amuro Land, His Royal Highness Chief Eric Fiki, has commended Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, for strengthening the state’s security architecture through the acquisition of two PH-20 Unmanned Aerial Systems and other advanced security assets.Chief Fiki described the move as a strategic and technology-driven response to the persistent challenges of terrorism, banditry, and other forms of insecurity confronting parts of the state. He said the initiative reflects a proactive approach to safeguarding lives and property across Kogi State
.The PH-20 drones were officially inaugurated on Monday at the Chari Maigumeri Barracks in Lokoja by the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu. According to security officials, the drones are designed to enhance real-time surveillance, intelligence gathering, and rapid-response operations for the military and other security agencies.In a statement released on Tuesday in Lokoja, Chief Fiki praised Governor Ododo’s “visionary and purposeful leadership,” noting that the deployment of modern surveillance technology demonstrates the administration’s commitment to addressing security threats using innovative solutions.
He said the acquisition has raised morale among residents of Yagba land, particularly communities recently affected by bandit attacks. According to him, the people are encouraged by the government’s decisive action and hopeful that the new security assets will help flush out criminal elements operating in the area.“Residents of Yagba are inspired and excited by this development. They believe the drones will significantly aid security agencies in tracking and dismantling the camps and hideouts of bandits terrorising the region,” Chief Fiki stated.
The traditional ruler also highlighted other security initiatives implemented by the Ododo administration, including the absorption of 2,752 vigilante operatives into the Kogi State civil service. He said the move has strengthened grassroots security and improved coordination between local vigilante groups and formal security agencies.In addition, Chief Fiki noted the recruitment and deployment of local hunters across various parts of the state as another measure that has contributed to improved security. He said these combined efforts have helped position Kogi State as one of the most peaceful states in the North-Central geopolitical zone.
According to the Amuro Baale, the integration of technology, community-based security structures, and conventional forces has created a more robust and responsive security framework capable of addressing emerging threats.
He called for the immediate and effective deployment of the PH-20 drones and other security equipment to identified flashpoints, particularly in Yagba land, Kogi West, and other vulnerable areas across the state. He stressed that timely action would help prevent further attacks and restore confidence among residents.“ These investments clearly show that security remains a top priority for Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo and his administration,” Chief Fiki said. “The use of modern technology sends a strong signal that the government is serious about defeating criminality in all its forms.”
Chief Fiki reaffirmed the unwavering support of the people of Amuro Land for Governor Ododo’s administration. He expressed confidence that the deployment of advanced security technology, alongside ongoing reforms, will bring lasting peace, stability, and economic growth to Kogi State.
