The Ogun State Government has ordered the mandatory documentation of all foreign nationals residing in the state as part of a broader effort to strengthen security and enhance intelligence gathering.

Governor Dapo Abiodun announced the measure on Monday while briefing journalists after a high-level security meeting at his Iperu residence.

According to the governor, the documentation exercise will be carried out in line with established security protocols and immigration laws, adding that no individual entering or living in the state would be permitted to operate without proper identification.

Abiodun stressed that Ogun, as Nigeria’s industrial hub and gateway to the nation’s commercial capital, must remain vigilant to safeguard its socio-economic stability.

“There cannot be meaningful economic development in an atmosphere of insecurity. This is why we have taken decisive steps to ensure full documentation of foreign nationals and strengthen engagement with all non-indigene communities,” he said.

The governor further disclosed plans to convene a strategic meeting with leaders of non-indigene communities to deepen cooperation, build trust, and improve overall security coordination across the state.

In addition, he announced that the activities of scavengers, often linked to security breaches, would now be strictly regulated to prevent criminal infiltration under the guise of the trade.

Abiodun also revealed that the state will intensify security operations in forests and government reserves, crack down on illegal mining activities, and enforce sanctions against landlords who harbour criminal elements.

Commending the President and security agencies for ongoing rescue operations involving kidnap victims in Niger and Kwara States, the governor reiterated that the best time to strengthen security is during periods of relative peace.

He urged residents to take security as a shared responsibility, “We encourage citizens to provide timely information to law enforcement to enable quick and effective response.”

Abiodun added that the state would continue to enhance inter-agency collaboration and support security operatives, including local hunters, as part of its modernized security architecture.