The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, expressed disappointment over the absence of tracking equipment for security agencies in the nation’s capital, stating that his administration intends to acquire drones for surveillance in border communities.
During a press briefing on Thursday, the minister specifically called out the FCT commands of the police and the Department of State Services (DSS), noting their deficiency in basic tracking devices.
“It’s unfortunate to say this, but most of the security agencies, particularly the police here, are not adequately equipped. In fact, you cannot believe it that the police command of the FCT does not even have ordinary tracking devices. You cannot believe that,” Wike remarked.
He highlighted the insufficient resources at the FCT Command of the Department of State Services, emphasizing that the sole tracking device available is located at the headquarters, creating unnecessary delays in operational activities.
Fortunately, Wike informed that he had alerted the President about the urgent need for procurement of essential equipment for security agencies. Approval for emergency procurement was granted in January, prompted by recent abductions.
Furthermore, the FCT Administration, under Wike’s leadership, disclosed plans to acquire drones for enhanced surveillance, particularly along the FCT boundaries.
“In fact, that is one of the approvals Mr. President gave to us. We are going to purchase our own drones to help in surveillance and in operation, particularly within these boundaries that the topography is so bad, so hilly, and where you have the forests. And we make sure that it is provided in the 2024 statutory budget. I briefed this to the National Assembly yesterday (Wednesday) and they were highly elated,” he explained.
