By Tola Gbadamosi

The Commander of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, codenamed Amotekun, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, has reassured the people of Ondo State of the corps’ preparedness to combat criminal elements and restore security in record time.

Adeleye gave this assurance during a lecture and award presentation held at the Amotekun Corps headquarters in Alagbaka, Akure, the state capital.

While acknowledging the security challenges facing the state, particularly in its forests, he expressed gratitude to God and commended the Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, for providing an enabling environment for the corps to operate effectively.

“We return all glory and adoration to God Almighty. To the Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, who has created an enabling environment for us to work, we say a very big thank you.

To the management, officers, and men of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, I say thank you very much for your support,” he said.

Adeleye also appreciated the Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM), Godwin Akinbo, for honouring the corps with an award and organising the lecture.

One of the guest lecturers, Dr. (Mrs.) Akimbo Rachel from the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), emphasised the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in tackling security challenges.

“My area of specialisation is artificial intelligence and machine learning, and I’ve done several projects in that field.

I always ensure my projects address real challenges in our community. That is why I am here today—to explore how technology can help solve the problem of insecurity.

By leveraging artificial intelligence, we can achieve better security outcomes.

I hope for a community where both lives and property are safe. Deploying AI-powered devices will greatly enhance the efforts of Amotekun and other security outfits in combating insecurity,” she stated.

Another speaker, a senior lecturer, Dr. Ifelola Oluwaseyi, highlighted the link between mining activities and security threats, particularly kidnapping.

He stressed the need for a shift in mindset regarding mineral extraction.

“Mining is meant to drive development, but the negative effects we see, especially in terms of insecurity, are due to a distorted perspective.

Extracting minerals for economic benefit should not come at the expense of human lives.

We need a strategic approach to curb insecurity using both human and technological interventions.

As an expert in mining safety engineering, I advocate for responsible mining practices that prioritise humanity above all else,” he explained.

Speaking on behalf of the Nigerian Institute of Management, the Chairman of the Alagbaka Chapter, Godwin Akinbo, commended the Amotekun Corps for their performance since their establishment under the late Governor Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.

“The scorecard of Amotekun has exceeded expectations, and it is time to complement their efforts.

As part of our advocacy visits and capacity-building initiatives, the NIM carefully selected Amotekun for this training to boost their morale and enhance their strategic capabilities.

Security is constantly evolving, and so should security strategies.

This is why we brought in experts to discuss AI technology and ways to combat kidnapping in the mining sector.

Our contribution to Amotekun at this moment is to support their efforts and encourage them to achieve even greater successes,” Akinbo said.

The event underscored the importance of innovation in security operations and reaffirmed the commitment of Amotekun to safeguarding Ondo State.