Ogun Governor Says State is Set for Police Force

Ogun State Governor has announced that his government is ready to set up a state police force. He called this a key step to improve security, protect investments, and support the state's growing economy.

The governor also shared plans to start a cash transfer program for vulnerable residents. This program aims to help those struggling with rising food and transport costs.

Abiodun made these announcements during a town hall meeting about the 2027 budget and the 2027, 2029 Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF). The meeting took place at the Akarigbo Palace in Sagamu.

While discussing the new state police, the governor, who leads the Nigeria Governors’ Forum Committee on State Police, said Ogun is ready to take this step. He explained that the state's growing industrial and commercial activities need a stronger security setup.

He said, "I am the Chairman of the Governors’ Forum on State Police creation. Ogun State is ready for state police."

Abiodun stated that his government has been improving the state's security structure. This includes providing operational vehicles, allowances, and equipment, as well as increasing recruitment into the Ogun State Security Network, known as Amotekun.

He revealed that Amotekun and the So-Safe Corps together have about 6,000 personnel. "To protect the gains we have made, we have continued to strengthen our security architecture by providing them with vehicles, allowances and equipment. We have empowered our Amotekun and increased their recruitment," he said.

On the cash transfer initiative, the governor explained that this program is meant to give direct financial help to households facing high living costs, especially for food and transport. He connected the current economic challenges to disruptions in the global oil and gas supply chain due to the ongoing conflict between Israel, America, and Iran, which he said has led to rising oil prices and transport costs.

"We are going to start the implementation of our social investment cash initiative. We are going to transfer cash to our people to cushion the effects of this America-Israel-Iran war," he stated.

The governor announced that the program would start in Sagamu. Beneficiaries, already identified in the state's database, are expected to receive payment alerts soon. He mentioned that the initiative would later expand to other communities in Remoland and across the state.

"I am starting that today in Sagamu. I’m going into Ogijo from here. All those who have been generated to benefit will get their alerts today while I’m there. I’m going to do the same across Remoland and, of course, the whole state," he said.

Abiodun also shared plans to drill boreholes in all 236 wards across the state. He plans to provide transformers and solar-powered streetlights to improve access to basic amenities and enhance security in communities.

He assured residents that Remoland is a key part of his government’s development plans. He emphasized that the area is actively involved in the ongoing economic changes happening in Ogun.

"Remoland is not on the sidelines of these developments. You are right in the middle of it. You are a participant and a contributor to this economic improvement," he said.

Earlier, the governor's Economic Adviser and Commissioner for Finance, Mr Dapo Okubadejo, said good governance relies on open talks, active citizen participation, and accountability between the government and the people. He stressed that any government should be judged by how much its actions improve citizens' lives, especially in infrastructure and social programs.

Giving an overview of the state's finances, Okubadejo said Ogun spent N490 billion out of the N703 billion budget for 2024, which is about 70 percent. He stated that the 2025 budget of N1.05 trillion saw spending of around N700 billion, which is 65 percent. He mentioned that the 2026 budget, at N1.67 trillion, continues to support projects in infrastructure, education, youth empowerment, agriculture, and other important areas.

"As we begin preparing for the 2027 budget within the 2027, 2029 Medium Term Expenditure Framework, this town hall meeting is a chance to discuss the policies, programs, and projects we will start next year," he said.