Seven thousand able bodied young men and women were Friday inaugurated as members of the Imo State Vigilance Services Organisation by Governor Hope Uzodimma, another bold step taken to enhance security in the State.

The inauguration is part of efforts by the Governor Uzodimma-led administration to completely eradicate crime and criminality in all communities of Imo State, and underscore a renewed commitment to peace and stability.

The event, held at the Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu Square, Owerri, marked a significant step in the administration’s strategy to combat insecurity and foster a safe environment for residents.

“As a state, we have witnessed a transformation,” the Governor remarked, reflecting on the recent festive season’s peace. “This past Christmas, our communities celebrated without incidents of molestation, a testament to the return of calm and order.”

Governor Uzodimma emphasised that the establishment of the Vigilance Services Organization, backed by the Imo State Security Organisation Amendment Law No. 3 of 2025, is not only essential for local security but also a proactive measure to protect the state’s developmental gains. “We must work every day to keep the peace we have earned,” he stated.

Governor Uzodimma addressed traditional rulers directly, affirming their crucial role in community safety. “You are the fathers of your communities. You know your children, and it is upon you to expose criminality,” he urged, calling for collaboration between the Vigilance Organisation and local leaders.

The newly trained members of the Vigilance Services Organization will serve as the “eyes and ears” within the communities, equipped with essential skills for intelligence gathering.They are here to nip insecurity in the bud,” Governor Uzodimma noted, reinforcing that peace is a continuous effort rather than a destination.

In a strong message to potential disruptors, the Governor asserted: “We have worked too hard to build this new Imo. Any attempt to incite violence will not be tolerated. The era of constance fear is gone and now behind us.”

He therefore called on the citizens to support the newly inaugurated officers, emphasising cooperation as vital for maintaining public safety. “When the right hand washes the left and the left washes the right, both hands become clean,” he explained, urging community engagement in the fight against insecurity.

The Governor maintained that the inauguration serves as a clear signal to investors and visitors that Imo State is focused on maintaining a safe climate for growth and development. “Imo is open, Imo is safe,” he insisted and encouraged all to find opportunities within the state.

Governor Uzodimma commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for endorsing community policing and the establishment of local security initiatives, emphasising that this approach allows communities to take ownership of their security, which is vital for enhancing national security.

He expressed gratitude for Tinubu’s support, highlighting the importance of empowering local vigilance groups and fostering collaboration between them and traditional rulers to maintain peace and safety in Imo State, describing the initiative as a cornerstone for ensuring sustained security and stability for the community, “ultimately contributing to a safer Nigeria.”

In his welcome address, the Commissioner for Homeland Security and Vigilante Affairs, Hon. Modestus Osakwe, said the launch of the Imo State Security Organization (ISSO) is a major milestone in the state’s ongoing efforts to strengthen safety and security.

He noted that the initiative represents a bold, strategic, and visionary step toward addressing security challenges and ensuring a peaceful future for all residents of the state.

According to him, the establishment of the Imo State Security Organisation signals the beginning of a new era of peace, safety, and prosperity, pointing out  that the outfit was created in response to growing concerns over crime and insecurity in various communities.

The Commissioner commended Governor Uzodimma for his proactive leadership and unwavering commitment to prioritizing the security and wellbeing of Imo people. “Security remains a critical foundation for sustainable development and economic growth,” Osakwe emphasized.

He expressed optimism that the new security organisation would strengthen collaboration between conventional security agencies and local communities, improve intelligence gathering, and enhance rapid response to security threats.

The Commissioner therefore called on residents to cooperate with the Imo State Security Organisation and actively participate in community safety initiatives, stressing that security is a collective responsibility.

The high points of the event was the unavailing of security provided by the State government for the 27 Local Governments of the State, as well as awards to Best Legal Lecturer, Best Parade Commander, Best in Drills, Best Guard Commander, Best LGA Chairman on Mobilization  Skills, Best in Academics and Best Behaved Recruit.

Present at the event were; the Deputy Governor, Lady Chinyere Ekomaru,  Senators representing Imo West and North – Senators Osita Izunaso and Patrick Ndubueze,  members of the House of Representatives, members of the State House of Assembly, the  Secretary to Government of Imo State, Chief Cosmos Iwu, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Barr. Nnamdi Anyaehie, members of the Imo State expanded Executive Council and other government appointees, Local Government Council Chairmen, Councillors, Heads of Security Agencies and Para-military, traditional rulers among others.