By Asaye Bankole
The Osun State Government has unveiled plans to deploy artificial intelligence (AI)-powered cameras, drones, radar systems and other advanced technologies as part of a comprehensive security initiative aimed at protecting lives and property across the state.
Governor Ademola Adeleke disclosed this in a statement issued by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, following a meeting between the governor and senior executives of Hefei Shengwen Information Technology Company Limited, a Chinese technology firm listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange, which is handling the proposed project.
According to the statement, the meeting focused on discussing and finalising details of the security initiative, which is designed to strengthen intelligence gathering, improve surveillance and enhance security operations across Osun State.
The Chinese delegation was led by the company’s Director of International Operations, Mr Cai Jianfei, and its Manager of Overseas Operations, Mr Nemo Guo.
Rasheed explained that the proposed project would involve the establishment of a modern security and intelligence system supported by a central Command and Control Centre, from which security developments across the state would be monitored in real time.
He said the initiative would deploy drones, radar systems, AI-enabled cameras, robotics and Internet of Things technology across strategic locations to facilitate round-the-clock surveillance and rapid responses to security threats.
The project would also include a safe-school programme and a decentralised mobile application that would enable residents to connect directly with the Command and Control Centre.
According to the statement, the security infrastructure would cover schools, banks, industrial facilities, farms, mining sites, commercial centres, bus parks and motor garages across major towns and strategic routes in the state.
The initiative is expected to improve the monitoring of public spaces and critical facilities while strengthening the capacity of security agencies to identify and respond to potential threats.
Speaking during the meeting, Cai invited Adeleke to undertake a working visit to China to further discuss the project.
He described the initiative as an inclusive security programme designed to integrate the capabilities of the state government and relevant stakeholders in protecting residents, businesses and public infrastructure.
In his remarks, Adeleke said his administration had already established the Osun State Security Trust Fund as part of its efforts to strengthen the state’s security architecture.
He explained that the proposed technology-driven initiative would complement existing security measures and provide additional tools for preventing and responding to criminal activities.
“Our plan is to create an inclusive security platform that will fully secure and protect our people. From schools, hospitals, businesses and border communities, this initiative is a strategic option,” the governor said.
The planned deployment comes amid growing concerns over security threats in parts of the South-West, with state governments and security agencies exploring measures to prevent criminal activities and protect vulnerable communities.
Adeleke Urges Residents to Report Suspicious Movements.
Meanwhile, the governor has urged residents of Osun State to promptly report suspicious movements and unfamiliar individuals in their communities to security agencies.
The appeal followed a report by Newsmen concerning a meeting between the Department of State Services (DSS) and leaders of the Osun Muslim Community and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN).
At the meeting, religious leaders were reportedly briefed on intelligence suggesting that terrorists were planning to mobilise towards states in the South-West and cause unrest as part of an alleged plot to discourage voter participation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Reacting to the development in a statement signed by his spokesperson, Rasheed, Adeleke urged residents to remain vigilant and promptly alert security agencies to suspicious activities.
He particularly emphasised the need for increased vigilance in border communities, where residents were encouraged to report any unusual influx of unfamiliar individuals.
The governor’s appeal underscores the importance of public cooperation in complementing the government’s planned deployment of advanced surveillance technology and other security measures.
The proposed AI-powered security initiative is expected to form part of Osun State’s broader efforts to strengthen intelligence gathering, improve surveillance and enhance the protection of residents, businesses and critical infrastructure across the state.
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