Picnews
At a time when security concerns continue to dominate national discourse and several parts of the country grapple with varying forms of criminality, Lagos State is making a proactive and affirmative stance on security and well-being of its citizens, and is warning every criminally minded to stay away from its shores, either by land, air, or water. This is why the Lagos State Government is optimizing its security efforts through sustained and well-funded security architecture built on deliberate institutional support and collaboration.
Earlier yesterday Friday 5th June, by the instructions and orders of the Executive Governor of Lagos State, Gov. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, the Executive Secretary/CEO of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund, LSSTF, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan presented bulletproof vests and ballistic helmets to all Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), Area Commanders and Tactical Squad Commanders across Lagos, in a firm affirmation that Lagos possesses the capacity, resources and institutional framework required to maintain its status as one of the safest environments for business and living in Nigeria.
Speaking during the official presentation ceremony, the Executive Secretary/CEO, LSSTF, Dr. Ogunsan, reassured Lagosians that despite security challenges confronting parts of the country, Lagos remains safe, secure and fully prepared to confront any threat to public peace and safety. “For those who intend to perpetrate evil, Lagos is not the place. Our responsibility is to secure this state and we will pursue that responsibility with all our strength. The officers standing behind us today are only a fraction of the men and women who are prepared and committed to protecting lives, safeguarding communities and stopping criminal elements in their tracks.”
Ogunsan noted that the protective gear was deliberately presented to senior police leaders to reinforce leadership from the front. “In response to the confidence that Lagosians have reposed in us, we are empowering the agency that they have entrusted with securing them. The job is simple – to secure Lagos. And we are doing that with renewed strength and determination because these are challenging times. While the security situation across the country demands vigilance, we are committed to ensuring that those challenges do not find expression within our domain.”
“We have been equipping security agencies across the board for several months now, not just the police but all security formations operating in Lagos. However, we felt leadership is critical. That is why today we are presenting these items to all DPOs, Area Commanders and Tactical Squad Commanders. When leaders are adequately equipped, they are empowered to lead their men from the front and inspire confidence throughout the ranks.”
Ogunsan paid glowing tribute to the Executive Governor, Gov. Sanwo-Olu, describing him as a leader whose commitment to security has remained unwavering.
“We have invested significantly in security through the support of Lagosians and under the leadership of our competent and able Governor, Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu. The Governor has demonstrated exceptional commitment to the safety of residents. He constantly reminds us that Lagosians must be safe and well protected, and he has continued to support every initiative aimed at strengthening security across the state.”
Ogunsan also expressed gratitude to Lagosians whose contributions and support continue to make the interven
tions possible.
“Our mandate is very clear. We were established to support all the security agencies in Lagos, most especially the police who head internal security operations. But first, we must thank Lagosians for making available the resources that enable us to procure these security assets. These bulletproof vests and helmets you see today are made possible through the trust, contributions and support of the people of Lagos.”
On his part, the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Fatai Tijani, commended Governor Sanwo-Olu and the LSSTF for what he described as another milestone in strengthening Lagos’ security architecture.
According to him, the support being consistently provided to the command places a greater responsibility on officers to deliver excellence in service and public safety.
“To whom much is given, much is expected. Lagosians should expect nothing less than excellence from us. With the tremendous support we continue to receive from the Lagos State Government and the LSSTF led Dr. Ogunsan, we are battle-ready and fully committed to ensuring the safety and security of every resident of Lagos.”
The presentation of the bulletproof vests and helmets sends a strong message of reassurance to residents that while security challenges may persist in various parts of the country, Lagos remains focused, prepared and determined to stay ahead of criminal threats through strong leadership, effective partnerships and sustained support for security agencies.
