Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has declared his unwavering dedication to safeguarding the lives and property of all citizens within the state.
The Chief Press Secretary to governor Monday Okpebholo , Ebojele Akhere Patrick quoted the governor who made the declaration when he received the new commander of the 4 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Ahmed Olatunboju Balogun, who paid a courtesy visit to the Government House.
During the visit, Governor Okpebholo assured Brigadier General Balogun of the Edo State government’s complete cooperation and sustained support in the ongoing battle against insecurity and various criminal activities.
He stressed the importance of a strong partnership between the state and the Nigerian Army to ensure the safety and well-being of Edo residents.
“I extend a warm welcome to you in Edo State. We enjoyed a productive relationship with the previous commander, and I am confident that we will build upon that foundation. The security of the people and property in Edo State is of paramount importance to our administration, and we are fully committed to working alongside you to maintain a secure environment throughout the state.
“You talked about school, hospital, and road. These are areas we are already working on. In the next few days, you will see improvements around the office. At the Ekenwan Barracks, we are taking the road project to Gele-Gele, spanning about 36km. In that vicinity, you can see the good work already ongoing,”
“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 stated.
The governor also urged the new commander to maintain open communication regarding any operational requirements, further solidifying the collaborative effort between the state government and the Nigerian Army.
In his remarks, Brigadier General Balogun expressed appreciation for the state government’s support of the brigade.
He commended the governor’s passion for security and pledged to consolidate the existing cooperation between the military and the state government, aiming to enhance the safety and security of Edo State, while also highlighting areas needing prompt attention.
“I took over 4 Brigade barely a week ago, and I deemed it fit to pay this courtesy visit to inform His Excellency of the change in command,”
“Permit me to sincerely appreciate you for the work you have been doing for the brigade. I see the passion and drive His Excellency has for security. It is top-notch, and I must commend you.”
“My predecessor spoke highly of the support received from the Edo State Government, which has greatly aided our professional duty. I will build on this cooperation and take it to the next level. My passion is to work towards making Edo State safer, ensuring citizens sleep with both eyes closed and go about their businesses without fear,” he said.
The commander also highlighted areas needing prompt attention, including the completion of the Ekenwa Barracks road, the stalled renovation of the brigade school, and the need for drones to enhance technological-driven operations.
Present at the meeting were the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilo Esq.; Chief of Staff, Mallam Gani Audu; Permanent Secretary, Government House and Protocol, Mrs. Edith Sede and other senior government officials.
