By Sam Biodun Ogundipe in London

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has flagged off the renovation and upgrade of the Ogugu Army Force Base in Olamaboro Local Government Area as part of efforts to strengthen internal security.

The project includes facility rehabilitation, installation of solar power, closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems and perimeter fencing at the base located in Ogugu.

The governor, represented at the event by security expert and Chief Executive Officer of Real Strikers Security Ltd, Joseph Erico, led stakeholders from Kogi East and Olamaboro during the ceremony.

Details of the development were contained in a statement issued by the Senior Special Assistant on Cybercrime to the governor, Promise Emmanuel.

Commanding officer of the Forward Base, Capt. Ochigbo, commended the state government for responding to requests for improved welfare and infrastructure, noting that the presence of the facility has contributed to improved security in the area.

Mr Joseph Erico said further that, he was directed by the governor to inspect the facility and assess security risks to guide necessary interventions.

He disclosed that plans were underway to install a borehole, solar power system and CCTV surveillance, alongside the reconstruction of damaged infrastructure within the base.

Also speaking, the Special Adviser on Security for Ankpa Federal Constituency, Ahmed Ahmed, said the governor acted promptly on reports concerning the facility, adding that the intervention followed requests from the Ogugu Development Union.

President of the union, Samuel Igeh, described the response as timely, while acknowledging the role of stakeholders in facilitating the project.

A youth leader in the area, Bamaiyi Ikwuji, said improved security presence had restored access along key routes linking the area to the South-East, including corridors previously affected by kidnapping and banditry.

He, however, appealed for government intervention on other roads in the area that remain in poor condition.

Other stakeholders at the event included political office holders, community leaders and representatives of socio-political groups from the locality.