The Oyo State government on Thursday handed over 30 patrol vans to several security agencies operating in the state, including the Hunters Association of Nigeria, to enhance their operations.

The presentation of the 30 pick-up vans was done by the state’s deputy governor, Adebayo Lawal, on behalf of Governor Seyi Makinde.

In his remarks, Mr Lawal said the vehicles were in fulfilment of the promise made by Mr Makinde in the build-up to the 2023 general elections.

“These patrol vans are going to be strictly for the purpose of providing security in the state and must be utilised mainly for that purpose.

“And criminals should look elsewhere and not this state for their nefarious activities because the Seyi Makinde administration will continue to prioritise the security of lives and property in the state,” he said.

Giving the breakdown of how the vehicles would be distributed, the deputy governor said the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) would get 15.

”The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) will get two vehicles, and the Nigerian Air Force will be given one vehicle.

“The Oyo State Road Transport Management Authority (OYRTMA) will be given two vehicles, the NDLEA will get one vehicle, while the Hunters Association of Nigeria will get one vehicle,” said Mr Lawal.

Mr Lawal also said the governor’s monitoring unit would use eight of the vehicles.

He then promised that the present administration in the state would continue to support security agencies.

On his part, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, Fatai Owoseni, said Mr Makinde’s administration placed a great premium on security.

He added that the 100 KIA cars purchased to commemorate the administration’s first 100 days in office would soon be branded and distributed to security agencies in the state.

Earlier, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Adebola Hamzat, commended Mr Makinde for his continued investment to ensure the maintenance of peace and security.

(NAN)