Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has launched a new set of high-tech security tools to boost the protection of lives and property across the state.
The equipment, procured through the Enugu State Security Trust Fund (ESSTF), includes advanced drones, patrol vehicles and protective gear for security personnel.
The governor unveiled two state-of-the-art drones, 10 Hilux vans, 40 motorcycles, 400 bulletproof vests and 400 bulletproof helmets during an event at the Government House, Enugu. He said the new assets would strengthen the capacity of security agencies and help sustain the administration’s recent gains in tackling violent crimes.
Mbah warned that the state would no longer tolerate any form of criminal activity. He stressed that the government would track, capture and prosecute any group or individual threatening peace in the state. He said the administration’s huge security investments were designed to ensure Enugu remained the safest state in Nigeria.
The governor noted that the recent decline in violent crimes, which he estimated at over 80 percent, was the result of deliberate reforms and consistent surveillance. He said the state had already installed AI-enabled cameras across major areas and deployed more than 150 Distress Response Squad vehicles fitted with intelligent monitoring systems.
Mbah added that security remained a sensitive sector where one lapse could undermine years of progress. He said the high-tech tools would help the state prevent crime and respond quickly whenever incidents occur. He assured residents that the state government would continue to support President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to stabilize national security.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Enugu State Security Trust Fund, Ike Chioke, represented by Nath Udeh, said the new equipment would make the state uncomfortable for criminals. He said the improved security climate was evident in the increased number of visitors and businesses now returning to Enugu.
He added that airline traffic had risen so sharply that travellers often struggle to secure seats without early booking. He said more organisations were choosing Enugu for retreats and corporate events, which he described as clear signs of growing confidence in the state’s safety.
The Executive Secretary of ESSTF, Engr. Chinedu Ani, explained the capacity of the new drones. He said each drone operates with vertical take-off and landing, which makes them effective in any terrain. He said the drones can cover 100 kilometres, cruise at 120 kilometres per hour and operate without a runway. He noted that they carry multiple cameras, including thermal, night vision and daytime lenses, all equipped with AI analytics.
Ani said the drones will help the state track suspects, vehicles and human movement in real time. He described them as powerful intelligence tools capable of supporting large-scale operations.
The Anglican Bishop of Enugu Diocese and ESSTF Trustee, Rt. Rev. Onyekachi Onyia, backed the heavy investment in security. He said Enugu remains a strategic gateway for the entire South East. He warned that leaving the state insecure would expose the region to grave risks.
The governor urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies.
He restated his administration’s commitment to building a secure, safe and business-friendly Enugu.