Ekiti State Gives 100 Vehicles to Security Services

Ekiti State Government on Monday gave out 100 operational vehicles to security agencies in the state. This move aims to boost security operations, improve emergency response, and help security personnel move around better.

Governor Biodun Oyebanji handed over the vehicles to various security agencies. These include the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, the State Security Service, and local security groups in Ado-Ekiti.

Mr Oyebanji said this act shows his administration’s commitment to keeping people safe and protecting property in the state. He mentioned that the vehicles would also help with the setup of the planned Ekiti State Police Outfit. He called the move a “bolder step” in response to the ongoing need for more operational vehicles by security agencies.

The governor reminded everyone that his administration had also given out patrol vehicles, Armoured Personnel Carriers, bulletproof vests, helmets, and other security gear to agencies in the state two years ago. “Lined up here are 100 units of security vehicles, primarily for operations and mobility of your personnel and the eventual take-off of the Ekiti State Police Outfit. This is in addition to our numerous interventions in the security sector in the state,” he said.

Mr Oyebanji promised that his administration would keep supporting the security agencies. This includes regular monthly financial help and efforts to strengthen state-owned security institutions. He urged the security chiefs to give back by increasing patrols, improving visibility, and ensuring faster responses to calls for help.

“With the provision of these vehicles, I want to see increased patrols, strategic visibility, faster response, and spontaneous agility from your men. There should be no excuses, lapses, or unprofessional conduct,” he said. He also asked security and intelligence agencies to make good use of the surveillance technology available in the state.

The governor disclosed that talks had started with CIG Motors to set up a garage in Ekiti. This garage would help ensure regular maintenance for the vehicles. He also asked the agencies to take good care of the vehicles, saying that proper maintenance would make them last longer and work better.

Mr Oyebanji reminded security personnel to stay alert as the state readies for the upcoming inauguration activities and the 2027 general elections. He stressed the need for everyone to work together to keep the peace in Ekiti.

At the event, the governor’s Special Adviser on Security Matters, Ebenezer Ogundana, a retired brigadier general, spoke about the government’s commitment to the safety of citizens. He said the ongoing investment in the security sector shows this commitment. He noted that because of the government’s efforts, Ekiti has been ranked the most peaceful state in Nigeria. He added that the new vehicles would help security agencies work more effectively.