Toba Owojaiye reporting
Benin City, Edo State
In a recent engagement at the Government House in Benin City, Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State underscored the pivotal role played by various security agencies in maintaining peace and order, thereby fostering development across sectors in the state. Welcoming the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, alongside other top security chiefs on a courtesy visit, Obaseki expressed gratitude for the seamless collaboration between the government, federal security agencies, and state-owned security outfits.
Truth Live News gathered that while reflecting on the state’s journey towards progress, Governor Obaseki emphasized the indispensable nature of peace and security for societal growth. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to fostering partnerships with security agencies, ensuring they are well-equipped to fulfill their mandate of safeguarding lives and property.
Acknowledging the significant strides made over the past years, Obaseki attributed much of the success to the synergy between federal and state security agencies. He highlighted the importance of data-driven decision-making in addressing security challenges, particularly emphasizing the menace of cultism in the state.
He said, “I thank you and your men on ground for the services they have been rendering to us in Edo State. I recall a few years ago when we had internal security challenges and requested that you deploy some of your men to help us deal with the situation; the cooperation we received was total.
“The State has witnessed remarkable improvement in the last eight years and the underlying factor for this is our ability to have law and order in the State. The Law and order we have experienced in Edo State has been as a result of the peaceful collaboration with sister agencies in the State.
“Collaboration between the federal security agencies and our own State security agencies is seamless and responsible for the huge success recorded as it has helped us maintain the calm and peaceful atmosphere we witnessed in Edo State today.
“Without law and order, it will be difficult to have any meaningful development. I thank your agency and other federal security agencies and our local security agencies for the commitment and dedication to making Edo State one of the safest in Nigeria.”
Furthermore, Governor Obaseki identified ongoing security concerns, such as those related to the maritime border, particularly along the Ovia River axis. He stressed the necessity for increased surveillance in the area to combat illicit activities and guarantee the safety of planned developmental projects, including the Benin River Port.
In response, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar commended Governor Obaseki for his administration’s developmental strides, remarking on the remarkable transformation witnessed in the state. He praised the collaborative efforts between the government and the people of Edo State, expressing appreciation for their support towards the Nigerian Air Force.
In conclusion, Governor Obaseki reiterated the importance of sustained partnership with security agencies, underscoring their critical role in ensuring peace and security, which are foundational to the state’s continued progress and prosperity.