Ekiti State Government has distributed 100 operational vehicles to security agencies in the state as part of efforts to strengthen security operations, enhance rapid response to emergencies and improve the mobility of security personnel.

The State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, handed over the vehicles to the benefiting security agencies such as police, Nigerian army, Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps, Department of State Security, among others including local security networks on Monday in Ado-Ekiti.

The governor said the gesture was another demonstration of his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.

Oyebanji said the vehicles would also support the eventual take-off of the proposed Ekiti State Police Outfit, describing the intervention as a “bolder step” towards addressing the recurring demand by security agencies for operational vehicles.

According to him, the administration had, two years earlier, distributed patrol vehicles, Armoured Personnel Carriers, bullet-proof vests, helmets and other security equipment to security agencies in the state.

He said: “Lined up here are 100 units of security vehicles, primarily for operations and mobility of your personnel and the eventual take-off of the Ekiti State Police Outfit. This is in addition to our numerous interventions in the security sector in the state.”

The governor assured the security agencies of the continued support of his administration, including regular monthly financial assistance, as well as efforts to strengthen the capacity of state-owned security institutions.

Oyebanji charged the security chiefs to reciprocate the government’s investment by intensifying patrols, improving strategic visibility and ensuring faster response to distress calls.

“With the provision of these vehicles, I will want to see increased patrols, strategic visibility, faster response and spontaneous agility on the part of your men. There should be no reasons for excuses, lapses or unprofessional conduct,” he said.

He also urged security and intelligence agencies to maximise the surveillance technology available in the state and work collaboratively rather than operating in silos.

The governor disclosed that the administration had commenced discussions with CIG Motors on the establishment of a garage in Ekiti to ensure regular maintenance of the vehicles.

The governor further appealed to the benefiting agencies to take proper care of the vehicles, stressing that effective maintenance would ensure their longevity and sustained operational usefulness.

Oyebanji also appealed to security personnel to remain vigilant as the state prepares for its forthcoming inauguration activities and the 2027 general elections, stressing the need for all stakeholders to work together to preserve the peace in Ekiti.

Speaking at the event, the Special Adviser to the governor on Security Matters, Brig. Gen. Ebenezer Ogundana(retd) said the administration of Governor Oyebanji is committed to the security of lives and property of the citizens, hence the renewed investment in the security sector.

He declared that following the government’s deliberate efforts and investment, Ekiti was ranked the most peaceful state in the country, adding that the vehicles would enhance the operational efficiency of the security agencies.