…‘No Hiding Place for Criminals,’ ESSTF Declares
Enugu State raised public confidence in its security infrastructure on Monday as Governor Peter Mbah inaugurated a new fleet of high-tech surveillance equipment and patrol vehicles procured by the Enugu State Security Trust Fund (ESSTF), marking another major milestone in the state’s security transformation drive.
The new assets include two state-of-the-art drones, 10 Hilux 4×4 patrol vehicles, 40 motorcycles, 400 bulletproof vests, and 400 bulletproof helmets, all designed to enhance rapid response and intelligence-led operations across the state.
Speaking at the Government House, Enugu, Governor Mbah commended the ESSTF Trustees for their dedication to strengthening the state’s security framework, noting that the new equipment would complement ongoing investments such as the Command and Control Centre, AI-powered surveillance cameras, and over 150 Distress Response Squad vehicles equipped with AI-enabled systems.
He reiterated that his administration regards security as the backbone of the state’s economic resurgence.
“The administration’s achievements and humongous vision would have come to naught without the security of lives and property,” he said.
“We can confidently say that violent crimes have been reduced by over 80 per cent in Enugu State today. But we are not resting on our laurels because criminals are constantly seeking new opportunities to breach security.”
Governor Mbah also emphasized the collaborative efforts with the Federal Government.
“We will continue to cooperate with President Bola Tinubu’s administration, which is working tirelessly to keep the country safe,” he assured.
“Security is one sector where even a 90 per cent score can be undermined by one breach. That is why we are investing heavily in equipment and infrastructure that help us prevent crime and respond swiftly.”
Representing the Chairman of ESSTF, Ike Chioke, Board of Trustees member Nath Udeh said the new equipment sends a clear message to criminals.
“There is no longer any hiding place for criminals,” he declared.
“These items will further boost the governor’s efforts to make Enugu the safest state to live and invest in.”
He noted that the noticeable improvement in security under the Mbah administration is already attracting an influx of visitors and businesses.
“If you don’t book early, you won’t get a seat on flights coming into Enugu. Companies are now choosing Enugu for retreats and assignments. These are clear signs that something positive is happening here,” he added.
Providing technical insight into the newly procured equipment, the Executive Secretary of ESSTF, Engr. Chinedu Ani, said the two Vertical Take-off and Landing (VTOL) drones are equipped for operations in any terrain.
“The drones have a 100km coverage range, and the farthest point from our Command and Control Centre is 90km,” he explained.
“They cruise at 120km per hour and are fitted with multiple cameras, including thermal, night vision, and daytime vision, all enhanced with AI for advanced analysis. With these drones, we can track suspects, vehicles, and human activity anywhere in the state.”
A Trustee of ESSTF and Anglican Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Rt. Rev. Onyekachi Onyia, underscored the strategic importance of securing Enugu, not only for the state but for the entire South East.
“We understand the consequences of leaving Enugu porous,” he warned.
“If terrorists get through Enugu, the South East is finished. It will not end well.”
The inauguration marks another decisive step in the Mbah administration’s mission to position Enugu State as the safest, most attractive destination for investment and livelihood in the South East.
