Olu Samuel
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, Chief of Army Staff, on Monday hailed Kogi State for “setting the pace for Nigerian security” as he unveiled two PH‑20 Unmanned Aerial Systems at Chari Maigumeri Barracks, Lokoja.
The ceremony, gathered top military brass, heads of security agencies, traditional rulers, religious and community leaders.
Represented by Chief of Transformation and Innovation, Army HQ Abuja, Maj. -Gen. Olusegun Abai, the COAS said the drones would boost military and security operations in the state.
According to him, “the drones, procured by the state government, will boost intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) and strengthen military and other security operations across the state.”
Shaibu thanked Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for his “warm reception and confidence” in the Nigerian Army, noting that the acquisition shows Kogi’s commitment to complement federal security efforts.
The Army chief highlighted the recent deployment of 21 Battalion as a “strategic intervention” that, together with the drones, will expand troop reach and enable decisive action against terrorists, bandits and other criminals.
“The PH‑20 UAS, obtained through the Office of the National Security Adviser, will serve as a force multiplier, enhancing situational awareness and decision‑making,” Shaibu said, adding that the technology aligns with best practices in modern security operations.
He linked Kogi’s initiative to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s national security agenda, stressing that “synergy between federal and state authorities is critical to sustainable peace in the North‑Central and beyond.” Shaibu praised officers and soldiers for their “sacrifices, professionalism and dedication,” calling the new assets a morale booster.
The Army chief urged residents to provide timely, credible information, emphasizing that security is a collective responsibility.
He reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s loyalty to President Tinubu and the Constitution, and formally unveiled the drones, marking a new chapter in Kogi’s effort to secure the state and its neighbours.
In his remarks, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo described the initiative as “a clear statement that every Kogite’s safety is our top priority.”
Ododo warned criminal groups, saying “Your time is running out,” and stressed that Kogi’s strategic north‑south gateway makes security a national duty.
He highlighted two years of gains, absorbing 2,752 vigilantes, recruiting hunters across 21 local government areas, and creating a Quick Response Unit with vehicles, motorcycles, vests and communications gear.
“These drones give us eyes in the sky to deny criminals any hiding place,” he said.
He thanked President Bola Tinubu and the nation’s security chiefs for their support, and praised State Security Adviser, Cdr. Jerry Omodara (rtd) for reshaping the state’s security architecture.
The governor urged citizens to share intelligence, saying, “Silence protects criminals; cooperation protects communities”.
He added: “With the drones now operational, Kogi aims to become “the safest state in Nigeria,” sending a message that it is “not a safe place for criminals, but a safe home for honest, hardworking people.”
The Commander 12 Brigade, Brig. -Gen. Kasim Sidi; and Commissioner of Police, Naziru Kankarofi; described the initiative as a significant step in the state’s security capabilities and technological advancement.
They both commended the governor for fostering synergies among security agencies and for positioning Kogi at the forefront of security innovation.
Sidi emphasised that the drones will boost force effectiveness, spur local tech growth for safer communities.
Earlier, the State Security Adviser noted the drones would provide real‑time aerial surveillance, terrain mapping and rapid intelligence across forest corridors and border routes.
“They will act as force multipliers, extending our agencies’ reach and reducing risk to personnel,” he added.
Omodara said the drones will close intelligence gaps, offering “eyes in the sky” to monitor suspicious movements and disrupt criminal supply lines.
He said that operators from the Nigerian Army, Police and DSS have completed three months training and ready to fly the drones, interpret data and follow strict rules of engagement.
Omodara emphasised that technology would complement, not replace, human courage and will boost inter‑agency synergy.
He called on citizens to share credible information and cooperate with security forces, and praised the governor for his “foresight and courage.