The Nigerian Army has retrained 1,472 members of the newly reorganized Edo State Security Corps to assist the police in intelligence gathering and low-level operations aimed at combating crime.
The Corps members underwent a rigorous two-week training at the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Orientation Camp in Okada, Ovia North-East Local Government Area, and passed out on Thursday.
Speaking at the event, according to a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, Governor Monday Okpebholo—represented by his deputy, Mr. Dennis Idahosa—said his administration has reorganized and restructured the Security Corps to embrace professionalism and collaborate with security agencies in the fight against criminality across the state.
He explained that the activities of the former Corps were politicized and lacked professionalism, which necessitated the reorganization.
“Regrettably, the activities of the former Corps were politicized, and it lacked professionalism. Hence, I decided to reorganize and restructure the Corps to meet set objectives,” he said.
The governor appreciated the Nigerian Army for undertaking the training, describing it as a demonstration of the government’s commitment to fighting crime and ensuring a safe Edo State.
He further disclosed that his administration has established a management board to oversee the affairs of the Corps, with a focus on discipline and welfare.
“We expect a high level of discipline and performance during and after this rigorous training,” he said.
“Your activities are highly monitored, and profiling is ongoing to identify those fit to serve in the Corps.”
The training is considered a significant milestone in the state’s security architecture. The Corps has now been equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to support other security agencies in combating crimes and addressing security challenges.
The passing-out parade of the newly reorganized Edo State Security Corps marks a new beginning, as the Corps is now structured to handle complex security emergencies and make a meaningful impact on the state’s overall safety.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including the Commander of the 4 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Benin City, members of the reorganization committee, and the acting Chairman of Ovia North-East Local Government Area.
Chairman of the reorganization committee of the Edo State Security Corps, Gen. Cecil Esekhaigbe (rtd), represented by Maj. Gen. Victor Ebhaleme (rtd), said the aim of the training is to make the Corps more effective and efficient in the performance of their duties.
“The training commenced on May 22, 2025, and personnel were drawn from 13 local government areas across the three senatorial districts of Edo State,” he said.
Gen. Esekhaigbe emphasized that the Corps is not intended to operate independently but to complement sister security agencies in maintaining peace in the state.
“With this training, the Corps is ready to support other security agencies to combat crimes and other security challenges,” he added.
