Governor Biodun Oyebanji has urged the Nigerian Army to deepen collaboration with other security agencies to strengthen security and eliminate criminal elements in Ekiti State.

Mr Oyebanji gave the charge on Tuesday while receiving Brig. -Gen. Justin Ifeanyi, the new brigade commander of the 32 Artillery, Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Akure, who was on a courtesy visit to the governor in Ado-Ekiti.

He said such collaboration would complement the efforts of other security operatives already working in the state.

Mr Oyebanji said the synergy among security chiefs had helped Ekiti maintain its reputation as the most peaceful state in Nigeria.

He urged the new brigade commander to uphold and build on existing cooperation among the security agencies to foster effective intelligence sharing and joint operations.

According to the governor, while the state enjoys relative peace, pockets of criminal activities still persist.

He underscored the importance of a united approach to tackle the challenges and ensure criminal elements are flushed out of the state to enable the citizens to live and work safely.

Reiterating his government’s commitment to maintaining the state’s status as the safest in the country, the governor assured the new brigade commander of his administration’s support to ensure that he succeeds in his new role.

Earlier in his remarks, the new brigade commander said the visit was to formally introduce himself to the governor and assure him that the Nigerian Army will intensify its efforts to combat criminal activities and ensure peace across the state.

(NAN)