By: Lauretta Fagbohun, Abeokuta.
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has described the recent recruitment of 550 new officers into the Ogun State Security Network Agency, popularly known as the Amotekun Corps as sustained investment in the State’s security architecture which underscores his administration’s commitment to protecting the lives, property, and prosperity of every citizen.
Addressing the Batch ‘E’ passing out parade ceremony of the security outfit at the NYSC Orientation Camp in Sagamu, Governor Abiodun said this move is in addition to the earlier employment of 690 operatives barely six months ago into the agency with a view to further bolster the State’s security framework.
Represented by his Deputy, Engr Noimot Salako-Oyedele, the governor highlighted that the ceremony marks a significant milestone in the collective pursuit of a safer Ogun State, stressing that Amotekun Corps was established to complement existing federal security agencies by leveraging community trust and local intelligence.
He attributed the State’s peaceful atmosphere to strategic planning, sustained investment, and collaborative efforts aimed at creating an environment where economy can grow, and people can live and thrive without fear, in tandem with his administration’s “Building Our Future Together Agenda”.
Congratulating the new officers and rank and file on the successful completion of their training, Governor Abiodun charged them not to see the passing out parade as merely ceremonial but rather a powerful affirmation of their readiness to serve and safeguard communities and the State at large, pointing out that this model of community policing being employed has proven effective as a cornerstone of the State’s security strategy.
Earlier in his welcome address, the State Corps Commander, Brigadier General Alade Adedigba (Rtd.), appreciated the array of transformative interventions from the State government that has significantly bolstered Amotekun’s operational capabilities and have equally demonstrated government’s unwavering commitment to enhancing the security framework in the State.
Gen Adedigba said the recruitment would, in no little measure, impact the communities positively and enhance the Agency’s capability to deal with all current and potential security threats, and the fillip to build a robust security apparatus designed to combat crime and ensure the safety of all residents in the State.
Appealing for further assistance from the State’s helmsman, the Corps Commander said the numerical increase in manpower comes with attendant effect that requires a new and bigger State Headquarters for the Corps, more working gadgets, operational tools and enhanced mobility, which would greatly improve the Corps response times to distress calls, and ensure that the operatives are always prepared to act swiftly
He charged the new recruits to work collaboratively, discharge their responsibilities with dignity and prioritize the safety and security of our citizens at their various beats where they would be strategically deployed across the State to ensure maximum coverage.
