Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has reiterated his administration’s steadfast commitment to supporting security agencies, emphasizing the critical importance of maintaining law and order while ensuring the safety of lives and property.
The Governor made this statement during a courtesy visit from the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Kemi Nandap, and her team at his office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
Represented by his deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, Governor Abiodun reflected on the ongoing support his administration has provided to security agencies since taking office, assuring that this commitment will not waver.
“Today, Ogun State is recognized as one of the safest in Nigeria, thanks to our unwavering support for security agencies,” he stated.
He noted that being the Gateway State, which borders Lagos and other states, presents unique security challenges due to the high volume of transient populations in various communities.
Governor Abiodun commended the security forces for their diligent efforts in maintaining peace in Ogun State, pledging continued support to enhance their operational flexibility.
He specifically addressed requests for office expansion, a training institution, the establishment of a Flag House, and additional patrol vehicles, promising his assistance to the first female Comptroller-General from the state to ensure a successful tenure.
The Governor also lauded the NIS for its initiatives aimed at improving the credibility of international passports and facilitating easier travel for Nigerians.
He expressed gratitude to the NIS team for their support of the Gateway International Airport and the Idiroko land border, acknowledging their contributions to state security.
“I wish the Comptroller-General a fruitful tenure, and I pray for God’s guidance and wisdom in her efforts,” he added.
In her remarks, Kemi Nandap commended the Ogun State government for its balanced development, particularly in infrastructure and the safeguarding of lives and property.
She explained that the visit was part of a border tour to assess activities at borders, especially those under Zone A, including Seme and Idiroko. She emphasized the necessity of thoroughly evaluating NIS operations to fulfill its mandate.
Nandap also highlighted the need for improvement in border management, stating that the NIS, under the Minister of Interior, Dr. Tunji Ojo, is deploying new technologies and organizing capacity-building programs for its officers.
“I extend my gratitude to the Ogun State administration for its unwavering support. Border management is a collective effort, and I recognize the Governor’s excellence in enhancing security infrastructure,” she remarked.
As a beneficiary of the state’s security initiatives, she requested additional patrol vehicles for seamless operations and assistance in combating migrant smuggling, an issue prevalent in the Southwest. “In just one month, we have recorded 64 cases of smuggling across various parts of the country,” she revealed.
