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Army Chief Inaugurates Advanced Security Drones in Kogi
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has inaugurated two PH-20 Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) advanced security drones and a fleet of security assets procured by the Kogi State Government to enhance military and internal security operations across the state.
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The inauguration ceremony, held on Monday at the Chari Maigumeri Barracks, Lokoja, drew senior military officers, heads of security agencies, traditional rulers, as well as religious and community leaders.
Drones to Boost Intelligence and Surveillance Operations
Represented by the Chief of Transformation and Innovation, Army Headquarters, Abuja, Maj.-Gen. Olusegun Abai, the COAS said the deployment of the drones would significantly strengthen intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities in Kogi State.
Shaibu commended Governor Ahmed Ododo for his strong support to security agencies, noting that the drones would improve situational awareness and operational effectiveness.
“The recent deployment of 21 Battalion alongside these advanced drones reflects a strategic, technology-driven response to terrorism, banditry and other security threats,” he said.
Aligning with Tinubu’s National Security Agenda
The Army Chief linked the initiative to President Bola Tinubu’s national security agenda, stressing that sustained peace in the North-Central region depends on strong collaboration between federal and state governments.
He also urged residents to support security efforts by providing timely and credible intelligence, while reaffirming the Nigerian Army’s loyalty to the Constitution and commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
Kogi Government Signals Zero Tolerance for Crime
Governor Ahmed Ododo described the deployment as a clear demonstration that the safety of residents remains the top priority of his administration.
“Your time is running out,” Ododo warned criminal elements, emphasising that Kogi’s position as a strategic North–South gateway makes security not just a state responsibility but a national obligation.
He outlined key security gains achieved over the past two years, including the absorption of 2,752 vigilantes, recruitment of hunters across all 21 local government areas, and the establishment of a Quick Response Unit equipped with vehicles, motorcycles, protective vests and communication tools.
“These drones give us eyes in the sky to deny criminals any hiding place,” the governor said.
Security Agencies Laud Technological Advancement
The Commander, 12 Brigade, Brig.-Gen. Kasim Sidi, and the Commissioner of Police, Naziru Kankarofi, described the initiative as a major boost to Kogi State’s security architecture and technological capacity.
They praised Governor Ododo for fostering inter-agency collaboration and positioning the state as a leader in security innovation.
Sidi noted that beyond improving force effectiveness, the deployment could also stimulate local technology development in support of safer communities.
Real-Time Surveillance and Trained Operators
Earlier, the State Security Adviser, retired Commodore Jerry Omodara, said the PH-20 drones would provide real-time aerial surveillance, terrain mapping and rapid intelligence across forest corridors and border routes.
“These platforms will serve as force multipliers, extending the reach of our security agencies while reducing risks to personnel,” Omodara explained.
He added that operators drawn from the Nigerian Army, Police and Department of State Services (DSS) have completed three months of intensive training and are fully prepared to operate the drones, analyse intelligence data and adhere strictly to rules of engagement.
