Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity decisively, assuring residents that their safety remains a top priority.
The governor made the declaration on Thursday while receiving the new Commander of the 4 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Ahmed Olatunboju Balogun, at the Government House in Benin.
Governor Okpebholo pledged the state government’s full support to the Nigerian Army in ongoing and future operations to curb crime across Edo State.
“Let me welcome you to Edo. We had a very good relationship with the outgoing commander, and I believe we will continue from where he stopped.”
“The security and protection of the people and property of Edo State are extremely important to us. We will work with you wholeheartedly to ensure Edo remains secure,” Okpebholo said.
He urged the new brigade commander to communicate promptly any operational challenges that may require state intervention.
In response to earlier concerns raised by the commander, the governor highlighted ongoing efforts to address key infrastructure needs.
“You talked about school, hospital, and road. These are areas we are already working on. In the coming days, you will see improvements around the office.”
“At the Ekehuan Barracks, we are extending the road project to Gele-Gele, spanning about 36 kilometres, and progress is visible.”
“In terms of technology, we are procuring multifunctional drones with advanced capabilities, and they will be delivered soon,” he added.
Governor Okpebholo emphasized that the enhanced collaboration with the Army would strengthen efforts to build a new Edo, free from insecurity.
Brigadier General Balogun, who assumed office barely a week ago, said it was essential to brief the governor immediately.
“Permit me to sincerely appreciate you for the work you have been doing for the brigade. I see the passion and drive His Excellency has for security. It is top-notch, and I must commend you,” he said.
The general pledged to strengthen the existing partnership between the Army and the state government. “My passion is to work towards making Edo State safer, ensuring citizens sleep with both eyes closed and go about their businesses without fear,” Balogun said.
He also identified urgent areas for attention, including the completion of the Ekehuan Barracks road, the stalled renovation of the brigade school, and the procurement of drones to enhance technology-driven security operations.
