Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan
Picnews
In a rapidly expanding megacity like Lagos, intelligence gathering is fast becoming the backbone of effective policing. Assisted by modern security frameworks such as CCTVs, phone cameras, Ray-Bans, and so on, modern intelligence doesn’t rely on the surveillance boots of law enforcement officers on the streets, but on the active participation of citizens who serve as the eyes and ears within communities. Timely, credible information can mean the difference between prevention and response, disruption and damage.
It is against this backdrop that the Lagos State Security Trust Fund, (LSSTF) under the Executive Secretary/CEO, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan has stepped forward with a strategic intervention aimed at bridging the gap between the public and security agencies. Recognising the challenges many residents face in relaying actionable intelligence, the Fund has introduced its first of it kind LSSTF Intelligence Unit with dedicated phone numbers that will serve Messaging-Only purposes so as to harness grassroots information in video, picture, and audio messaging formats and promptly channel them to the appropriate security agencies, thereby strengthening the state’s overall security architecture.
At a press conference held today at the LSSTF’s Headquarters, Alausa Secretariat Ikeja, the Executive Secretary/CEO, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan, formally announced the establishment of the LSSTF Intelligence Unit, describing it as a significant milestone in the collective effort to safeguard lives and property. “Today marks a significant step forward in our collective commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Lagos State,” Ogunsan said.
“The Lagos State Security Trust Fund is establishing an Intelligence Unit dedicated to receiving security-related information from members of the public and ensuring its timely transmission to relevant security agencies.”
Central to this initiative are two dedicated Security Tip Lines – 0911 019 5555 and 0916 201 1179 – through which residents can submit information.
According to Ogunsan, the platform is structured to encourage the flow of actionable intelligence while maintaining a high standard of confidentiality and professionalism. “We are pleased to formally announce that this information will be collected through the LSSTF Security Tip Lines,” he stated, emphasizing that the initiative is designed to “strengthen collaboration between the public and security agencies through actionable intelligence.”
He underscored the critical role of citizens in the security ecosystem, noting that while security agencies remain at the forefront of maintaining law and order, their effectiveness is greatly enhanced by credible information from the public.
“Security is a shared responsibility,” he said. “While our security agencies continue to work tirelessly to maintain peace and order, the role of citizens in providing credible information cannot be overstated.”
Ogunsan explained that the Intelligence Unit leverages technology to make reporting easier and more impactful. “Through these platforms, individuals can submit information, photographs, and video recordings relating to security concerns within their communities. This initiative leverages the power of technology and citizen participation to enhance situational awareness and support more informed decision-making by relevant authorities.”
He was, however, quick to clarify the operational scope of the tip lines. “It is important to clearly state that the LSSTF Security Tip Lines are not emergency response lines. They are designed strictly for information gathering, analysis, and strategic security planning,” he said, urging residents to continue using established emergency channels when immediate intervention is required.
Addressing concerns about misuse, the LSSTF boss issued a firm warning against the submission of false or misleading information. “It is critical to emphasize that the effectiveness of this initiative depends largely on the quality and integrity of the information received. We strongly urge all users of the platform to ensure that any material submitted is clear, accurate, and verifiable.” He added, “Let me be unequivocal that any malicious use of this platform, including the submission of false, misleading, or fabricated information, will not be tolerated. Such actions undermine security efforts and may have serious consequences.”
Providing further insight during a question-and-answer session, Ogunsan clarified that the initiative is not intended to duplicate the functions of existing security agencies, but rather to complement them.
“We are not trying to take the job of Command and Control Centre or other agencies; it is a support from us as an interventionist agency,” he explained. “We don’t just want to give vehicles alone; we want to intervene in things like this for those who are trying to reach out to security agencies but are not able to do so.”
He also highlighted a unique feature of the platform. “It is a no-call number. It’s just video messages and pictures to serve as evidence. When we get the information, we filter them out and send to appropriate agencies for immediate actions. We feel they will listen to us more because they know that a lot is at stake.”
Reassuring the public, Ogunsan stressed that all credible information would be handled with utmost discretion. “We assure the public that all credible information received through the LSSTF Security Tip Lines will be handled with the highest level of confidentiality and professionalism,” he said, noting that measures are in place to protect the identity of informants.
Describing the initiative as a partnership-driven approach to security, he concluded: “This initiative represents a partnership between government, security agencies, and the people. Together, we can build a safer, more secure Lagos where vigilance is collective, and response is strategic and effective.”
With the launch of the Intelligence Unit, LSSTF is not only reinforcing its traditional role as a provider of operational support, but also positioning itself as a critical enabler of intelligence-led policing in Lagos.
