Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has appealed to investors and the business community operating in Kogi State to support and contribute to the security intitiaves of the state.
Governor Ododo made the appeal on Tuesday at the Kogi State Security Summit and Fundraising held at NAF Centre, Abuja.
Ododo emphasized the importance of private support by stating that the government cannot fight insecurity alone because of the scale and complexity of the challenge.
These complexities, according to the Governor, effected the restructuring of the Kogi State Security Trust Fund to create a transparent and inclusive platform for individuals, corporate organizations and institutions to contribute meaningfully to the security of the state.
“I wish to make a special appeal to investors and the business community operating within our state. Kogi State has provided an enabling environment for your enterprises to grow and prosper; it is only right that we work together to sustain that environment. Security is the backbone of economic success, and businesses that are thriving here must see their contributions to security as both a responsibility and a strategic investment. By supporting our security initiatives, you are not only protecting your investments but also helping to secure the future of our state.
“Today, I make a passionate appeal for your support. Your contributions are not just donations; they are investments in peace, stability, and prosperity. When security is strengthened, businesses thrive, investments grow, communities flourish, and lives are protected,” he appealed.
He further reaffirmed the resolve of his administration to secure the lives and properties of the people of the state.
“In recent times, we have witnessed emerging threats, including criminal networks operating in forested and remote areas, the use of technology by criminals to evade detection, and cross-border movements that threaten our peace. These challenges require urgent, proactive, and intelligence-driven responses.
“As a government, we have not relented in our efforts. We have made significant investments in strengthening our security architecture through the provision of operational vehicles, deployment of advanced communication and surveillance systems, acquisition of drones, and continuous support for security operations across the state. These efforts have begun to yield results, restoring calm in many areas and disrupting criminal activities and networks,” he assured.
Governor Ododo also read the riot acts to criminal elements and their instigators, stating he will not pamper the enemies of peace.
“Let me also be clear about the fact that this administration will not negotiate with criminals. I was not elected to pamper the enemies of our peace. I was elected to ensure those who disturb our peace also do not enjoy peace. We will not bow to fear, and we will not surrender our communities to lawlessness. Those who choose the path of crime must be prepared to face the full weight of the law. We will confront them, we will crush them, and by the grace of God and the collective resolve of our people, we will defeat them.”
