The Osun State Government has initiated a statewide security and surveillance project involving the deployment of artificial intelligence-enabled cameras, drones, radar systems and robotics to strengthen crime prevention and protect lives and property.

Governor Ademola Adeleke announced the initiative following a meeting with executives of Chinese technology firm Hefei Shengwen Information Technology Company Limited, where details of the proposed project were discussed and finalised.

The delegation from the company was led by its Director of International Operations, Cai Jianfei, and Manager of Overseas Operations, Nemo Guo.

According to the governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, the project will establish an integrated security and intelligence platform connected to a central Command and Control Centre, enabling authorities to monitor security developments across the state in real time, around the clock.

The proposed system will combine drones, radar, artificial intelligence-powered cameras, robotics and Internet of Things technology to gather information and monitor incidents across communities.

Its planned coverage includes schools, hospitals, banks, industrial facilities, farms, mining sites, commercial centres, bus parks and motor garages in major towns and along key transport routes.

The initiative will also feature a Safe School Project aimed at strengthening security around educational institutions. In addition, a mobile application will be installed on residents’ phones to provide a direct communication link with the Command and Control Centre, supporting emergency reporting and response.

Speaking on the initiative, Adeleke said the project built on his administration’s establishment of the Osun State Security Trust Fund, which was created to support security agencies through funding, equipment and collaboration with private-sector stakeholders.

He described the proposed technology-based system as an inclusive approach to protecting residents, businesses and communities, including those located along the state’s borders.

“Our plan is to create an inclusive security platform that will fully secure and protect our people. From schools, hospitals, businesses and border communities, this initiative is a strategic option,” the governor said.

Adeleke added that the administration intended to use modern technology to strengthen the state’s security architecture and improve its capacity to respond to emerging threats.

Jianfei described the project as an integrated initiative designed to combine the capabilities of the state government and technology providers to improve the protection of people and businesses. He also invited the governor to undertake a working visit to China.

The announcement comes amid concerns over potential security threats in the South-West, with the state government previously urging residents to report suspicious movements and unfamiliar individuals to security agencies, particularly in border communities.

However, the announcement did not specify the project’s total cost, a deployment timetable or when the full surveillance system would become operational.

The government said the initiative was intended to expand security coverage across Osun State and strengthen coordination between residents and security authorities.