Okpebholo meets new Army chief, promises enhanced security
Security
By Imelda Osayande
Benin, Dec. 11, 2025 (NAN) Gov. Monday Okpebholo of Edo has affirmed his administration’s commitment towards securing the lives and property of residents of the state.
Okpebholo made the remark, when the new Commander of the 4 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brig.-Gen. Ahmed Balogun, visited him at the Government House, Benin, on Thursday.
He assured the military of the State Government’s full cooperation and support in the fight against insecurity and other crimes.
He said: “The security and protection of the people and property of Edo are very important to us.
“I want you to know that we are going to work with you wholeheartedly to ensure Edo remains secure.”
“In the area of drones, we are procuring multifunctional ones with good capabilities.
“Very soon, we will deliver on that. I want you to help us secure a new Edo, free from insecurity.”
Okpebholo emphasised the importance of securing the state and its people, saying that his administration would work with the military to ensure Edo remained secure.
He listed ongoing projects by his administration to include road construction and the procurement of multifunctional drones to enhance security operations.
He urged the commander not to hesitate to draw his attention to any operational challenges requiring state intervention.
Earlier, Balogun pledged to consolidate the existing cooperation between the military and State Government towards making the state safer for the people.
He commended the governor’s passion for security and cited areas needing attention, including the completion of the Ekenwa Barracks Road and renovation of the Brigade School.
He emphasised the need for drones to enhance technology-driven operations.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the meeting was attended by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilo, Chief of Staff, Mallam Gani Audu; Permanent Secretary, Government House and Protocol, Mrs Edith Sede; and other senior government functionaries. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
IMEL/USO
Edited by Sam Oditah