The Oyo State Government, led by Governor Seyi Makinde, presented 100 KIA patrol vehicles to various security agencies. 

The ceremonial handover took place at the Oyo State Secretariat in Ibadan on Wednesday.

Governor Makinde reassured the commitment of his administration to supporting security agencies, acknowledging the challenges faced in 2023. He commended the efforts of security personnel in effectively managing and containing these challenges.

While addressing the heads of security agencies, Governor Makinde emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach, stating, “The patrol vehicles are just vehicles, the process, the system, the utilization, and the communications with the officers and men that will be utilizing the vehicles is actually the most important thing.”

He underscored the importance of officer welfare during patrol duties, stating, “We can only give maximum support to ensure that deployment to patrol duties is not viewed as punishment. And so, I want to give you the assurance that we will continue to support you.”

Responding to commendations for the vehicle donation, Governor Makinde humbly attributed the funds to taxpayers, stating, “All of us in government are supposed to be accountable for how the people’s money is spent for the benefit of our people.”

Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, Mr. Adebola Hamzat, expressed gratitude on behalf of all Service Commanders, saying, “We appreciate the government for supporting security agencies in the state.”

Hamzat assured the governor that the agencies would maximize the use of the vehicles to enhance efforts towards securing the entire state.

It’s noteworthy that the 100 KIA cars were funded collaboratively by the state government and 33 local governments. 

Beneficiary agencies include the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Army, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigerian Correctional Service, and Nigeria Customs Service.