Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo has declared that his state is no longer a hiding place for criminals, following an inspection visit to the newly established 21 Battalion Barracks in Anyigba, Kogi East.

The governor toured the facility on Wednesday, assessing operational infrastructure and interacting with military personnel stationed at the formation. Visibly impressed by the level of readiness, Ododo credited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s security investments with transforming the atmosphere in a region that had previously been plagued by kidnapping, highway robbery and communal violence.

“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,” the governor stated.

He made clear that the momentum would not slow down. “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,” Ododo declared.

The governor praised President Tinubu for his consistent backing of state-level security efforts, describing the federal support as instrumental in enabling ground operations. “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 said.

Ododo further revealed that the Federal Government had granted approval for air support whenever required, calling it a major boost to ongoing operations. “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,” he said.

The governor also commended the Commanding Officer of the 21 Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Godiya Solomon Monday, for his leadership and dedication, and assured military authorities that the Kogi State Government would continue to provide all necessary support to sustain the security gains, particularly as farmers begin preparations for the planting season.