–Pushes Enugu Toward Fully Intelligent Safety Architecture
In a decisive step toward building a technologically driven security architecture, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State on Monday inaugurated a new batch of high-tech security assets acquired by the Enugu State Security Trust Fund (ESSTF).
The unveiling marks another leap in the state’s transition from traditional policing to a modern, intelligence-led security system.
The new assets include two advanced Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) drones, 10 Hilux 4×4 patrol trucks, 40 operational motorcycles, and 400 units each of bulletproof vests and helmets.
Speaking at Government House, Enugu, Governor Mbah described the deployment as part of a broader blueprint to make Enugu the safest and most secure environment for living, working, and investing in Nigeria.
He commended the Trustees of the ESSTF for aligning with his administration’s vision and for sustaining investments that strengthen operational efficiency across security agencies.
He emphasized that the new equipment would reinforce Enugu’s already robust security infrastructure, which includes a state-of-the-art Command and Control Centre, a network of AI-powered surveillance cameras, and over 150 Distress Response Squad vehicles equipped with intelligent monitoring systems.
“Our achievements and our bold vision would mean nothing without the safety of our people,” Mbah said. “Security is local, and we must continue to play our part. These assets will be deployed immediately to ensure Enugu remains the safest state in the country.
“We can confidently say that violent crimes in Enugu have dropped by over 80 per cent, but we are not relaxing. Criminals evolve, and a single breach can undermine months of hard work. That is why we are investing heavily in tools, platforms, and technologies that allow us to detect threats early, respond faster, and stay miles ahead of those who attempt to destabilize our state.”
Representing the Chairman of the ESSTF, Ike Chioke, Trustee Nath Udeh affirmed that the upgraded inventory leaves “no hiding place” for criminal elements, adding that the Mbah administration’s security turnaround is already attracting unprecedented human and economic traffic into the state.
He cited the surge in flight bookings and the increasing number of businesses choosing Enugu for retreats, conferences, and new investments as proof of renewed confidence in the state.
Providing technical details, ESSTF Executive Secretary, Engr. Chinedu Ani, said the VTOL drones significantly expand Enugu’s surveillance reach.
With a 100km operational radius, multiple AI-enabled cameras, thermal imaging, night vision, and a cruise speed of 120 km/h, the drones are built to track individuals, vehicles, and suspicious activity across challenging terrain without needing a runway.
“These drones give us real-time, high-resolution intelligence. They can take off anywhere, cover the entire state, and even extend surveillance beyond Enugu’s boundaries if required,” Ani explained.
Rt. Rev. Onyekachi Onyia, Anglican Bishop of Enugu Diocese and ESSTF Trustee, underscored the strategic significance of sustained security investments, noting that Enugu’s stability is foundational to the safety of the entire South East region.
“We know what is at stake. If Enugu is porous, the whole South East becomes vulnerable. Securing Enugu is securing the region,” he said.
With Monday’s inauguration, Enugu State deepens its commitment to a new era of security, one defined by intelligence, speed, technology, and collaborative vigilance, positioning it as a model for modern safety management in Nigeria and beyond.
