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'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - The Kogi State Government has ramped up efforts to combat insecurity by taking proactive measures against criminal elements across the state and its borders. Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has adopted a direct and consistent approach to tackling crime, focusing on offensive operations targeting criminals in their hideouts, according to Ismaila Isah, Special Adviser to the Governor on Media.
Speaking on TrustTV's Daily Politics program on Tuesday, Isah highlighted the state's innovative security strategy, which includes collaborating with neighboring states and federal security agencies to rid the region of criminal activity.
Isah disclosed that Kogi State is actively conducting clearance operations, particularly along its borders with nine states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). These efforts, he said, aim to disrupt the activities of criminals who use forests as hideouts to launch attacks.
"Instead of waiting for the bad guys to come to us, we are probably the only state in Nigeria that has decided to consistently take the fight to the bad guys in their hideouts," Isah stated.
The operations involve coordination with governors of neighboring states to ensure comprehensive security coverage. "Whenever we want to embark on these operations, we contact governors of these neighboring states so they can join us in efforts to rid the borders of criminals," he added.
The state government has fortified its security framework through collaboration with the National Security Adviser’s office, the Nigerian military, and other security agencies. Isah noted that logistical support provided to security operatives includes over 300 vehicles, hundreds of motorcycles, and the recruitment of nearly 3,000 vigilantes and local hunters.
These vigilantes, reenergized and reorganized under Governor Ododo’s administration, are now earning above the state’s minimum wage, demonstrating the government’s commitment to incentivizing and professionalizing grassroots security operations.
Isah commended the previous administration of former Governor Yahaya Bello for laying a solid foundation for security in the state. He credited Bello with overhauling and strengthening the state's security architecture, which earned him national recognition as the best governor in security for consecutive years.
"That security architecture has been largely consolidated upon by the current government of Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, and we assure that we will continue to build on that," he said.
The governor’s spokesman also praised the leadership of military and paramilitary heads in Kogi State, describing them as courageous and patriotic in their duties.
"They are among the best and most courageous set of security operatives we have in Nigeria. They are ready to put their lives on the line at all times to make sure our people are safe and secured,” Isah remarked.
On the issue of mining, Isah clarified that the state government had not banned mining activities but had suspended licensing by local communities due to security concerns arising from illegal mining.
“Government suspended licensing to restore sanity in the extractive sector. Now, we are ready to welcome investors,” he explained, signaling the administration’s openness to legitimate investment in the sector.
The state government remains committed to ensuring the safety of its citizens by proactively addressing security challenges. With robust collaboration, significant investment in security infrastructure, and a focus on sustainable development, Kogi State under Governor Ododo is setting a new benchmark in tackling insecurity and fostering investor confidence.
