By Newspointer News Desk
Lokoja | January 19, 2026
Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has unveiled two state-of-the-art HP-20 surveillance drones as part of renewed efforts to strengthen security and sustain peace across the state.
The drones were formally launched on Monday at the Chari Maigumeri Barracks, headquarters of the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army in Lokoja. They are designed for advanced surveillance, intelligence gathering, and rapid-response operations, particularly in difficult terrains and forested areas.
Governor Ododo described the initiative as a decisive step towards denying criminals any safe haven in the state. He said the drones would provide real-time intelligence, enhance precision-led security operations, and ensure early detection of suspicious movements across vulnerable locations.
The governor stressed that his administration would not relent in protecting communities from banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism. According to him, improved coordination among security agencies through technology-driven solutions would lead to faster and more effective deployment of security forces.
Ododo noted that Kogi’s strategic position as a gateway between Northern and Southern Nigeria has made it a frequent target for criminal elements exploiting border communities and forest corridors. He said the state government carefully assessed these threats and responded with concrete action rather than excuses.
He added that over the past two years, Kogi State has built a strong security architecture combining technology, community engagement, inter-agency collaboration, and firm political will, with the aim of making the state one of the safest in the country.
In his remarks, the Commander of 12 Brigade, Brigadier General K.U. Sidi, described the deployment of the surveillance drones as a “game changer” that places Kogi State at the forefront of security innovation and operational efficiency.
Representing the Chief of Army Staff, Major General Waidi Shuaibu, the Director of Transformation and Innovation at Army Headquarters, Brigadier General O.S. Abai, reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to securing the state. He disclosed that the 21 Battalion has been strategically deployed to Kogi to strengthen troop presence and improve rapid response to emerging threats.
With the drones now operational, the Kogi State Government and security agencies are better positioned to respond swiftly to criminal activities, enhance public safety, and reinforce residents’ confidence in law enforcement.
