The Edo State Government has announced the completion of a two-week intensive training for 1,472 personnel of the newly reorganized Edo State Security Corps, in a bid to bolster internal security operations across the state.
Governor Monday Okpebholo made this known on Thursday during the passing out parade held at the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Orientation Camp in Okada, Ovia North-East Local Government Area.
The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, said the restructuring was necessary due to the politicisation and lack of professionalism that plagued the previous formation of the Corps.
According to him, “Regrettably, activities of the former Corps were politicized, and it lacked professionalism. Hence, I decided to reorganize and restructure the Corps to meet set objectives.
In a statement signed by Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, the Edo State Security Corps was overhauled to enhance synergy with existing security agencies and support in low-level intelligence gathering and community policing.
Governor Okpebholo said the Corps was reconstituted under the Edo State Security Corps Governance Law 2024, aimed at aiding police operations, particularly in communities underserved by national security forces.
The training, conducted by the Nigerian Army, covered personnel drawn from 13 local government areas across Edo’s three senatorial districts. The exercise officially began on May 22, 2025.
“The Corps is not trained to operate alone but to support other sister security agencies, ensuring peace in the state. With this training, the Corps is ready to support other security agencies to combat crimes and other security challenges,” said Major General Victor Ebhaleme (rtd), who represented the Chairman of the Reorganising Committee, General Cecil Esekhaigbe (rtd).
Governor Okpebholo said a management board has been established to oversee the Corps, ensure discipline, and address personnel welfare.
He emphasised that all activities of the Corps would be monitored closely, with ongoing profiling to determine candidates truly fit for service.
He said, “We expect a high level of discipline and performance during and after the rigorous training. Your activities are highly monitored, and profiling is ongoing to know those who are good to serve in the Corps.”
The governor reaffirmed that security remains a top priority under his administration’s five-point agenda.
He expressed optimism that the reformed Corps would significantly enhance public safety across Edo State.
