In a bid to combat the growing insecurity and rampant cases of kidnapping in Nigeria, particularly in Delta State, US-based security systems developer and technology entrepreneur, Engr. Ogaga Akpofure, has unveiled a comprehensive security innovation that could redefine community safety and modern policing in the state.
Akpofure, a Delta-born expert who has spent over a decade working with global security agencies and tech firms in the United States, developed the Karzame Virtual Safety App and the VigilantEye Tracking & Dispatch System.
These two solutions were formally proposed to the Executive Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, as part of a broader initiative to support the government’s fight against crime and restore public trust in the state’s security system.
In his proposal, submitted through Karzame Technologies, a firm registered in both Nigeria and the United States, Akpofure expressed deep concern over the rising cases of kidnapping in areas such as Abraka, Uvwie, Warri, Sapele, and Asaba.
He explained that his motivation for designing the security system stemmed from the urgent need to safeguard communities and reduce the fear that now surrounds daily life in many parts of Delta State.
The Karzame Virtual Safety App is a mobile-based application designed for everyday citizens, enabling smartphones to serve as personal security tools.
It allows users to send distress alerts embedded with live GPS locations directly to designated security patrol teams.
The app also offers a virtual escort feature that provides real-time monitoring for individuals traveling through high-risk areas, which is expected to encourage farmers and traders to return to their activities with increased confidence.
Additionally, it supports remote home monitoring through verified security agents and allows users to anonymously report suspicious activities without fear of exposure, with incentives to encourage participation.
The app includes a live video and audio upload feature for real-time incident reporting and uses geo-fencing technology to secure critical locations like schools, religious centres, public gatherings, and farmlands by sending alerts when unusual movement is detected.
Notably, it integrates a drone dispatch system capable of providing aerial surveillance of crime scenes when incidents are reported, allowing the control room to track suspects in real time and often deterring ongoing criminal activity due to the visible presence of surveillance drones.
To further reinforce the system, it includes an anti-SIM swap feature, developed in collaboration with telecom operators, to prevent kidnappers from using stolen or swapped SIM cards to demand ransoms.
Complementing the mobile app is the VigilantEye Tracking and Dispatch System, which is a central command dashboard intended to be installed at the Delta State Police Command Headquarters, divisional police offices, local government security centres, and within approved community vigilante groups.
This system is built to ensure faster response to emergency calls and more effective deployment of security agents.
It will also enable local councils to monitor and evaluate their security operations using real-time data.
Speaking to journalists in Asaba, the Nigerian Country Director of Karzame Technologies, Mr. Peter Umudjane, reiterated the company’s readiness to collaborate with the Delta State Government.
He affirmed that the technology is fully developed and that the company is prepared to commence deployment, training, and support once approval is granted.
To ensure sustainability and reduce the financial burden on the government, the proposal includes a public-private partnership framework.
This approach would allow for shared responsibility in managing the system, from deployment to maintenance, while promoting local ownership and efficient operation across both urban and rural communities.
Engr. Akpofure emphasized that this initiative is his way of giving back to Nigeria by offering proven, life-saving technologies that can help restore public confidence and improve the state’s overall safety architecture.
He said Delta State could set an example for other states by adopting technology-based solutions to crime and insecurity.
Support for the project is already growing, with local youth organizations and stakeholders, including the Save Urhobo Youth Forum, publicly endorsing Akpofure’s proposal.
Many see it as a patriotic step toward creating a more secure environment for all residents.
As the Delta State Government continues to implement its “MORE Agenda” under Governor Oborevwori, the adoption of innovations like the Karzame system could mark a turning point in the state’s security efforts, bringing hope to citizens yearning for peace and protection.
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