By Sam Biodun Ogundipe in London

Governror Ahmed Usman Ododo has lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering commitment to strengthening security architecture across Nigeria, particularly in Kogi State, saying the President’s strategic investments and support for security agencies have significantly curtailed criminal activities in the state.

He made this known during an inspection visit to the newly established 21 Battalion Barracks in Anyigba, Kogi State, on Wednesday, where he assessed operational facilities and interacted with military personnel stationed in the area

The Governor, who was visibly impressed by the level of operational readiness and the rapid establishment of the military formation, described the barracks as a clear demonstration of President Tinubu’s resolve to support sub-national governments in confronting insecurity across the country.

According to him, the presence of the military formation has brought remarkable improvements to security in Kogi East, leading to a drastic reduction in cases of kidnapping, armed robbery, communal conflicts and other criminal activities that once threatened the peace of the region.

“I am here today to appreciate all the gallant officers who are making sacrifices daily to ensure that our people sleep with their two eyes closed. Since your arrival, the security situation in Kogi East has improved tremendously. Cases of kidnapping, armed robbery and other criminal activities have reduced significantly,” Governor Ododo stated.

The Governor emphasized that criminals have come to realize that Kogi State is no longer a fertile ground for their operations, declaring that there is no market for criminality anywhere within the state.

Criminals now know that Kogi State is not a fertile land for them. There is no market for criminality in our state. We will continue to confront them until they have no hiding place,” he said.

Governor Ododo particularly commended President Tinubu for providing critical support to states in the fight against insecurity, noting that the President has consistently demonstrated a practical commitment to securing lives and property across the federation.

“Mr. President is doing well. He has supported the sub-national governments immensely. He cannot be in all the 36 states fighting criminals, so we serve as his foot soldiers. We are working together to ensure that every part of Kogi remains safe and secure

He further disclosed that the Federal Government, under President Tinubu, has approved necessary air support for security operations whenever required, describing the intervention as a major boost to ongoing efforts against criminal elements.

“Mr. President has graciously granted approval that whenever we need air support, it will be made available. This demonstrates his commitment to ensuring that security agencies have the resources required to effectively combat criminality,” the Governor revealed