From Staff Writer
The Edo State Government has announced the successful training of 1,472 members of the newly reorganised Edo State Security Corps, as part of a renewed strategy to combat insecurity across the state.
The announcement was made during the passing out parade held at the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Orientation Camp in Okada, Ovia North East Local Government Area. The Corps, now restructured for professionalism and efficiency, received intensive two-week training facilitated by the Nigerian Army.
Governor Monday Okpebholo, represented at the ceremony by his deputy, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, said the overhaul of the Corps was necessary due to the politicisation and lack of professionalism in its previous operations.
“Regrettably, activities of the former Corps were politicised, and it lacked professionalism. Hence, I decided to reorganise and restructure the Corps to meet set objectives,” Governor Okpebholo stated.
He emphasised that security remains a core priority of his administration’s five-point agenda, adding that the state’s security architecture has been strengthened through the Edo State Security Corps Governance Law 2024. The law formally establishes the Corps to support the police in intelligence gathering and other low-level operations.
Governor Okpebholo commended the Nigerian Army for its role in equipping the Corps with the necessary skills to tackle criminal activities, describing the training as a demonstration of the state’s commitment to safety.
Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Reorganising Committee of the Corps, retired General Cecil Esekhaigbe, represented by retired Major General Victor Ebhaleme, explained that personnel were drawn from 13 local government areas spanning the state’s three senatorial districts.
“The Corps is not trained to operate in isolation, but in synergy with existing security agencies. With this training, the Corps is ready to support other security bodies to combat crimes and ensure peace,” he said.
The State government has also set up a management board to oversee the affairs of the Corps, with a focus on enforcing discipline and ensuring the welfare of its members.
“We expect a high level of discipline and performance during and after the rigorous training,” Governor Okpebholo said, adding that ongoing profiling of personnel will ensure only suitable individuals serve in the Corps.
The reorganisation and professional training of the Edo State Security Corps mark a significant step forward in addressing the security challenges facing the state. The Corps is expected to play a key role in enhancing public safety, particularly in areas where national security agencies are overstretched.
Dignitaries in attendance included the Commander of 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, members of the reorganisation committee, and the acting chairman of Ovia North East Local Government Area.
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