Security presence in Lokoja has received a boost following the commissioning of two new police outposts aimed at tightening surveillance and improving response time across key neighbourhoods in the state capital.
The development, according to the police, reflects a deliberate effort to bring law enforcement closer to residents while addressing long-standing concerns about delayed emergency responses in some parts of the city.
Moreover, the initiative forms part of broader efforts by the Nigeria Police Force to reinforce grassroots policing and deepen public trust through visible and accessible security structures.
The facilities were inaugurated in Lokoja on Thursday, with the outposts sited at Adankolo under the ‘A’ Division and Zango under the ‘D’ Division, areas described as security-sensitive due to growing population and activity.
Police spokesperson, ASP Saliu Afusat, explained that the locations were carefully selected to expand operational coverage and discourage criminal activity within the surrounding communities.
Notably, she said the project followed direct engagement with residents, who had raised alarms over the absence of nearby police formations and the resulting vulnerability to crime.
“The police leadership listened to the concerns of the people and acted decisively. This is a clear signal that community voices matter in shaping security decisions,” Afusat stated.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in Kogi State, CP Naziru Kankarofi, described the outposts as a practical demonstration of responsive policing rather than mere infrastructure expansion.
“These facilities represent our promise to work with communities, not above them. Effective security depends on shared responsibility and mutual trust,” Kankarofi said.
Furthermore, the commissioner cautioned officers deployed to the new outposts to maintain professionalism, respect human rights, and uphold ethical standards in line with the vision of the Inspector-General of Police.
He also urged residents to support policing efforts by volunteering credible intelligence, assuring that all information provided would be handled discreetly and responsibly.
Hence, the police command expressed confidence that the new outposts would strengthen safety in Lokoja while laying the groundwork for sustained police–community collaboration across Kogi State.