Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has vowed to intensify the fight against insecurity, assuring residents that his administration will deploy all the necessary resources to safeguard lives and property across the state.

The governor made the declaration on Thursday when he received the newly appointed Commander of the 4 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Ahmed Olatunboju Balogun, during a courtesy visit to the Government House, Benin City.

Okpebholo, who expressed confidence in the military’s renewed leadership in the state, emphasized his government’s readiness to collaborate fully with the Nigerian Army to keep Edo secure.

“We had an excellent relationship with the outgoing commander, and we will continue from where he stopped,” the governor said. “The security of our people and their property is a priority. We will work wholeheartedly with you to ensure Edo remains safe.”

The governor also encouraged the new brigade commander to relay any operational challenges requiring government intervention, noting that the state had already begun improving infrastructure around military facilities.

“You mentioned schools, hospitals, and roads. These are areas we are working on. In the coming days, you’ll notice improvements. At Ekenhuan Barracks, we’re pushing the road project to Gele-Gele, about 36 kilometres, and the work is ongoing,” he disclosed.

Reeling out plans to strengthen surveillance capacity, Okpebholo added; “We are procuring multifunctional drones with strong capabilities. Very soon, we will deliver on that. Help us secure a new Edo, one free from insecurity.”

Responding, Brigadier General Balogun said his visit was to formally notify the governor of the recent change in command. He commended the state government for its unwavering support to the brigade, describing the governor’s passion for security as “top-notch.”

“My predecessor spoke highly of the cooperation from the Edo State Government. I intend to build on this synergy and take it higher,” he said. “My goal is to make Edo safer so citizens can sleep with both eyes closed.”

Balogun also highlighted key areas needing urgent attention, including the completion of the Ekenwa Barracks road, renovation of the brigade school, and acquisition of drones to bolster technology-driven operations.