Enugu State has strengthened its security architecture with the launch of high-tech surveillance drones, patrol vehicles and protective equipment procured by the Enugu State Security Trust Fund (ESSTF).
Governor Peter Mbah, who inaugurated the assets on Monday at Government House, Enugu, said the new tools would bolster ongoing efforts to safeguard lives and property.
The equipment includes two state-of-the-art drones, 10 Hilux 4×4 vehicles, 40 motorcycles, 400 bulletproof vests and 400 bulletproof helmets.
Mbah praised the ESSTF for its commitment to enhancing security, noting that the new platforms would complement existing investments such as the state’s Command and Control Centre, AI-enabled surveillance cameras, and more than 150 Distress Response Squad vehicles equipped with AI-embedded cameras.
He said the state government had made significant progress, with violent crime reportedly dropping by more than 80 per cent, but stressed that the administration would not relent in maintaining vigilance.
“Security challenges are local, and at the state level, we must play our part. These items will be deployed to ensure Enugu remains the safest state in the country,” he said.
“You may score 90 per cent in security, but a single breach can undermine all achievements. That is why we must continue to invest in equipment and infrastructure that help us prevent and respond to crime.”
Representing the ESSTF Chairman, Ike Chioke, Trustee Nath Udeh said the new equipment had further narrowed the operating space for criminals.
He added that improvements in security under the Mbah administration were already visible in increased visitor numbers and renewed business confidence.
“Flights into Enugu are now in high demand, and many companies are choosing the state for retreats and key engagements. These are signs that something positive is happening,” he said.
Executive Secretary of the ESSTF, Engr. Chinedu Ani, said the two Vertical Take-off and Landing (VTOL) drones would give security agencies operational reach across all terrains.
With a range of 100km and multiple AI-enabled cameras—including thermal, night vision and daytime imaging—the drones can track suspects, vehicles and individuals anywhere in the state.
Rt. Rev. Onyekachi Onyia, Anglican Bishop of Enugu Diocese and Trustee of the ESSTF, said the heavy investment in security was justified, given Enugu’s strategic importance to the stability of the South-East.
“We understand the consequences of leaving Enugu porous. If terrorists get through Enugu, the entire South-East is endangered,” he warned.
