Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has called on the Nigerian Army to enhance collaboration with other security agencies in the state to strengthen security and eliminate criminal elements.
Governor Oyebanji made this call on Tuesday while receiving the new Brigade Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade, Nigerian Army, Akure, Brigadier-General Justin Ifeanyi, who was on a courtesy visit to his office in Ado-Ekiti.
He stated that increased military cooperation and presence would complement the efforts of other security operatives already working in the state.
Governor Oyebanji noted that the existing synergy among security chiefs in Ekiti has helped the state maintain its reputation as the most peaceful in Nigeria.
He encouraged the newly posted Brigade Commander to uphold and build upon the strong cooperation among security agencies, which has fostered effective intelligence sharing and joint operations.
While acknowledging that Ekiti State enjoys relative peace, Governor Oyebanji pointed out that occasional criminal activities persist.
He stressed the importance of a unified approach to tackling security challenges and ensuring that criminals are completely flushed out, allowing residents to live and work without fear.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to maintaining Ekiti’s status as the safest state in the country, Governor Oyebanji assured the new Brigade Commander of the government’s full support in ensuring his success in the role.
“As a government, we are grateful to the Nigerian Army for your sacrifices and gallantry in ensuring a secure country. Without your efforts, the situation would have been far worse, and we deeply appreciate your commitment. Since you are already familiar with this terrain, I am pleased that you have been reassigned here.
“One thing I can assure you is that you will have our full support and cooperation. Ekiti has been adjudged the most peaceful state in the country, yet we still have some criminal elements.
However, the strength of Ekiti’s security lies in the synergy between all security chiefs.
They work closely together, sharing intelligence and information. I urge you to build on this cooperation between the Nigerian Army and other sister security agencies in the state,” the Governor said.
In his remarks, Brigadier-General Justin Ifeanyi stated that his visit was to formally introduce himself to the Governor and reaffirm the Nigerian Army’s commitment to intensifying efforts to combat criminal activities and ensure peace across the state.
