By Gobina Joseph
The Kogi state government has launched two HP-20 State Asset Drones in its attempt to sustain the onslaught against bandits and kidnappers terrorising the state .
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo unveiled the drones on Monday in a brief ceremony at the Chari Maigumeri Barracks, Lokoja, the headquarters of 12 Brigade Nigerian Army.
The occasion attracted top military commanders, security stakeholders, and government officials.
The Governor stressed that the HP-20 drones are equipped with advanced surveillance, monitoring, and rapid-response capabilities, enabling real-time intelligence gathering and precision-led security operations across difficult terrains.
He said : “These priority drones have advanced surveillance, monitoring, and response capabilities. They can operate in difficult terrains, provide real-time intelligence, enable precision-led operations against terrorists, and offer early detection of suspicious movements”.
The governor stressed further that the deployment will significantly improve coordination among security agencies and allow faster, intelligence-driven deployment of forces across the state.
He noted that the investment marks a major leap forward in strengthening Kogi State’s security architecture, describing the initiative as a critical step in sustaining peace and denying criminals any foothold in the state.
“Let me be very clear: this administration will not falter. We will not surrender our communities. We will not allow bandits or terrorists to take over any part of our land. The government must be in charge not bandits, not kidnappers”, he stressed .
The Governor affirmed that his government is fully prepared to confront and defeat all criminal elements operating within the state, warning that time is running out for those who threaten public peace.
Earlier, the Commander, 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, Lokoja, Brigadier General K.U. Sidi stated that the deployment of the drones will change the game , noting that it has place Kogi State at the forefront of security innovation and operational efficiency.
The Chief of Army Staff, Major General Waidi Shuaibu, represented by Brigadier General O.S. Abai, Director of Transformation and Innovation at Army Headquarters, reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to Kogi State’s security.
The Brigade commander highlighted the recent establishment and deployment of the 21 Battalion Nigerian Army to the state as a strategic intervention to reinforce troop presence and improve rapid response to security threats.
The newly launched drones in Kogi
