Ondo State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, handed over 25 Toyota Hilux vehicles to various security agencies on Wednesday in Akure.
The presentation ceremony, held at the governor's office car park, was attended by a diverse group of distinguished guests.
Among those present were deputy governor, Olayide Adelami, speaker ondo state house of assembly, Rt Hon. Olamide Oladiji, secretary to the state government, Tayo Oluwatuyi, Chief of staff, Segun Omojuwa, APC state chairman, Ade Adetimehin, members of the state executive council, representatives of the security agencies, traditional rulers, and religious leaders.
During the event, Aiyedatiwa expressed his pleasure at the occasion, emphasizing the vital role security agencies play in safeguarding lives and property.
The governor said "As an integral part of government functionaries, it is no gainsaying that security agencies are pivotal to the overall security architecture of any society. This daunting task often requires patrolling from one location to another. To ease this important yet herculean function, we are providing these high-grade Toyota Hilux vehicles to enhance performance in the discharge of their security mandate,"
Reflecting on the legacy of his predecessor, the late Governor Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, who was instrumental in establishing the South West Security Network, also known as the Amotekun Corps, Governor Aiyedatiwa reaffirmed his commitment to prioritizing the security and safety of Ondo State's citizens.
"I remain steadfastly committed to putting the security and safety of our people first. Since I assumed office, I have consistently emphasized the need for all security stakeholders and state actors to work as one to secure lives and property," he added.
The governor also highlighted the increased need for security during election periods, acknowledging the surge in criminal activities during such times. He noted that the new vehicles would motivate and assist security agencies in their critical duties.
Governor Aiyedatiwa assured that the administration would continue to support security agencies, promising that those who did not benefit from this batch would receive their vehicles in due course.
"Our administration will continue to support the security agencies as we place a premium on the safety of lives and property of our people. Those that had not benefited from this batch will definitely have theirs soon," he promised.
He also assured continued logistic support and urged the security agencies to make good use of the vehicles to maintain law and order in the state.
"It should be noted that these vehicles are in addition to the regular logistic support we have been providing for all our security outfits. We recognize the importance of equipping our security agencies with the needed materials to combat crime and maintain law and order in our State."
"While assuring you that this kind of intervention shall continue subject to availability of funds, I charge you to make good use of these vehicles and continue to work tirelessly to keep our State safe. To the good people of the Sunshine State, we assure you that we will not relent in creating a secure and prosperous environment for all" he added.
The governor concluded the ceremony by presenting the vehicles to the heads of the security agencies, praising their efforts to ensure the safety of the state's residents.
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"Your efforts in ensuring that we can sleep at night with our two eyes closed must not go unnoticed. You are greatly appreciated," he said.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Secretary to the State Government, Tayo Oluwatuyi, emphasized the current administration's commitment to enhancing the efficiency of security agencies within Ondo State.
He highlighted the governor's recognition of the critical importance of protecting lives and property and assured that the governor remains steadfast in his dedication to securing the safety of every citizen. Oluwatuyi also expressed his gratitude to the governor for staying true to his word and fulfilling his promises.
Also Commissioner of Police, Abayomi Oladipo, thanked the governor for providing the vehicles despite the high exchange rate, assuring that they will be used strictly for security purposes. He emphasized that the reward for hard work is more work and pledged to collaborate with other security outfits in the state to ensure the safety of lives and property.
In his vote of thanks, SSA on security, Gbenga Atiba expressed gratitude to the governor for enhancing the effectiveness of security operatives within the state.
