The federal government has commissioned a Mobile Police Base by the National Hydro-Electric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC) located at Kakuruk community in Gashish District of Barkin-Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen George Akume, has said the Federal Government of Nigeria is committed to fortifying security infrastructures and ensuring the well-being of security personnel towards the protection of lives and properties across the country.

The SGF, who was represented by Simon Tyongo, pointed out that the development signifies a milestone in the ongoing efforts by the Federal Government, under President Bola Tinubu to enhance the working conditions and general welfare of security personnel across the country.

He explained that lack of adequate security infrastructure in the area has over the years exacerbated the security situation, stressing that there is the urgent need for interventions such as the one been commissioned through the diligent efforts of N-HYPPADEC.

He said: “In recent times, Nigeria has faced a multitude of security challenges that have posed significant threats to the peace and stability of our nation. The resilience and commitment of our security forces, particularly the Military and the Police, have been instrumental in addressing these challenges and safeguarding the well-being of our citizens.

“The renovation of this Mobile Police Base in Kakuruk is a proactive step taken by the Government to enhance the operational efficiency of our Police Force and reinforce security measures in these areas that require urgent attention. Barikin Ladi, unfortunately has been known for security challenges and communal conflicts, with the unfortunate events of August 2023 in Heipang still fresh in our memories.

“This Mobile Police Base has undergone a remarkable transformation, not only in terms of physical infrastructure but also in terms of functionality and efficiency to serve the host community and its environs.”

In his remarks, the Managing Director of N-HYPPADEC, Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq Yelwa, said the project cost the commission a total sum of N469,246,455.80, and that the comprehensive component of the renovated barracks includes the conversion of existing and dilapidated structures into well-furnished facilities.

“Police admin block, commandant’s house, police multipurpose hall, police officers’ offices, armory, senior officers’ quarters, junior police quarters, quarter guard, parade ground were all refurbished, as well as the provision of essential facilities such as transformer, electrification, borehole, water reticulation, security watch towers, drainage, external works and landscaping.

In his address, the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang represented by the Secretary to the Government of the State, Arch Samuel Jatau, commended the execution of the project, saying it is central in the actualization of the returns of various Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) from the community over the years.

The governor called on the federal government to collaborate with the state in actualizing the safe reruns of the IDPs to their ancestral homes to enable them to continue with their normal life.

The Plateau State Commissioner of Police, Emmanuel Adesina, in his remarks assured that the facility will be adequately taken care of as minimal security personnel will be deployed to the facility as they await the finishing, adding that the presence of his personnel in the facility will equally restore the confidence of the local community.