Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, has inaugurated a fleet of high-tech security equipment and patrol vehicles to enhance the protection of lives and property across the state. The items, procured by the Enugu State Security Trust Fund (ESSTF), include two Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) drones, 10 Hilux 4×4 vehicles, 40 motorcycles, 400 bulletproof vests, and 400 bulletproof helmets.
At the ceremony held at Government House, Enugu, Governor Mbah praised the trustees of the ESSTF for their dedication to improving security. He noted that the new equipment would complement existing state investments, such as the AI-enabled Command and Control Centre, surveillance cameras, and over 150 Distress Response Squad vehicles equipped with AI cameras.
“The safety of lives and property underpins all our achievements and future plans. These new tools will ensure Enugu remains the safest state in Nigeria,” Mbah said, adding that violent crimes in the state have already dropped by more than 80 percent. He emphasized that continuous investment in security is crucial, as even a single breach could undermine progress.
Ike Chioke, Chairman of ESSTF, represented by Trustee Nath Udeh, stated that the newly inaugurated items leave “no hiding place for criminals” and reinforce the state’s position as a safe place to live and invest. He highlighted that the rise in visitors and businesses to Enugu reflects the improvements in security under the Mbah administration.
Executive Secretary of ESSTF, Engr. Chinedu Ani, explained that the VTOL drones are capable of operating in any terrain without the need for a runway. Each drone can cover up to 100km, cruise at 120km per hour, and is equipped with thermal, night, and daytime vision cameras, which are AI-enabled to track suspects, vehicles, and people across the state.
Rt. Rev. Onyekachi Onyia, Anglican Bishop of Enugu Diocese and ESSTF trustee, stressed the strategic importance of Enugu in ensuring security across the South East. “Leaving Enugu porous could have severe consequences for the entire region,” he said, justifying the significant investment in the state’s security infrastructure.
