The Executive Chairman of the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC), Prince Olabiyi Olaleye Poroye, has hosted the leadership of the Ondo State security apparatus to a special appreciation get-together in recognition of their commitment to maintaining peace and security across the state.
The event, held on Thursday in Akure, brought together top security chiefs and stakeholders in what Poroye described as a deliberate effort to honour officers who have continued to make sacrifices in safeguarding lives and property.
Speaking at the gathering, the OSOPADEC Chairman said the occasion was organised to celebrate the security chiefs and express the gratitude of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa and the people of Ondo State for their dedication to duty.
According to him, one of his desires upon assuming office was to build closer relationships with security leaders in the state, noting that their prompt response whenever called upon has greatly contributed to the peaceful atmosphere being enjoyed across Ondo State.
"We are here on behalf of the Governor and the good people of Ondo State to say thank you. We may not have the opportunity to celebrate you the way we would have loved, but we want you to know that we appreciate your sacrifices and your commitment to ensuring that Ondo State remains peaceful," he said.
Poroye described Governor Aiyedatiwa as a leader who places high premium on security, adding that the governor deeply appreciates the efforts of the various security agencies in protecting lives and creating an enabling environment for development.
He disclosed that prominent political leaders within and outside the state, including ministers, senators and members of the House of Representatives, had consistently commended the state's security architecture and the governor's proactive approach to security.
"The Governor is exceptionally grateful for your service. This gathering is our little way of appreciating all that you do for Ondo State," he added.
Speaking with journalists after the event, Poroye stressed that the essence of the programme was to celebrate people while they are alive rather than waiting until after their demise.
"In the journey of life, people often appreciate others after they are gone. We do not want that in Ondo State. Peace is priceless, and we must continue to encourage those working tirelessly to preserve it. That is why we organised this get-together to appreciate our security chiefs," he said.
The OSOPADEC Chairman noted that the prevailing peace in Ondo State has positioned it as one of the most serene environments in Nigeria's coastal region, thereby attracting investors and promoting economic activities.
He also revealed that, beyond the conventional security agencies, the Ondo State Government, through OSOPADEC, engages private security outfits to complement the efforts of security agencies in protecting communities within the Commission's mandate areas.
Poroye further disclosed that Governor Aiyedatiwa has directed that Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras be installed in strategic public infrastructure, including the Obe-Nla Concrete Walkway and street lighting projects, to strengthen surveillance and support security agencies in crime prevention and intelligence gathering.
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