Abayomi Susan
• DIG Southwest Undertakes Strategic Working Visit to LSSTF
As security challenges continue to evolve across Nigeria, stakeholders have identified technology-driven security solutions, intelligence-led policing, and stronger inter-agency collaboration as the most sustainable pathways to public safety and national security.
This formed the focus of discussions on Monday, June 22, when the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF) hosted the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the South-West geopolitical zone, DIG Adegoke Mustapha Fayoade, as part of his working tour of the six South-West states.
The visit provided a strategic platform to assess emerging security threats, strengthen measures against criminal infiltration into the South-West, and explore innovative approaches to enhancing the operational capacity of security agencies. Central to the discussions was a shared commitment to keeping Lagos safe while positioning the state as a national model for technology-driven policing and intelligence gathering.
Speaking during the visit, DIG Fayoade emphasized the strategic importance of Lagos to Nigeria’s overall stability and prosperity.
“The security of Lagos is critical to the security of Nigeria. When Lagos remains safe and stable, it significantly contributes to national peace and economic growth,” he stated.
The DIG expressed confidence in the efforts of the Lagos State Government, LSSTF, and security agencies operating in the state, noting that their collective commitment has enabled Lagos to stay ahead of many security challenges confronting other parts of the country.
While acknowledging the relative stability of the state, he stressed the need for a more technology-driven and scientific approach to policing.
“We must continue to embrace modern technology and equipment that enhance accountability, transparency, and operational effectiveness,” he said.
DIG Fayoade specifically advocated the deployment of body-worn cameras for police personnel, noting that the technology would improve professionalism, provide accurate documentation of field operations, protect officers against false allegations, and strengthen public trust in law enforcement.
“We need tools such as body cameras that promote transparency and accountability. Recording police activities during patrols will enhance professionalism and further build confidence between the police and the public,” he explained.
He further emphasized the need to align policing practices in Nigeria with global best standards, describing technology as a critical component of future security management.
“Lagos has always led the way in innovation, and I am confident the state will continue to set the pace in modern policing and security management,” he added.
The DIG also commended the Lagos State Security Trust Fund for its sustained support to the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies, describing the Fund’s interventions as instrumental in strengthening security operations across Lagos.
In his remarks, the Executive Secretary/CEO of LSSTF, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan, applauded the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, for directing senior police officers to return to their operational zones to reassess security strategies and address emerging threats across the country.
“We appreciate this timely initiative by the Inspector-General of Police. It is important for all DIGs to revisit their zones, evaluate the security architecture, and develop sustainable solutions to emerging security concerns,” Ogunsan said.
While noting that the South-West remains one of the most peaceful regions in the country, he stressed the importance of vigilance and proactive measures to prevent criminal elements from infiltrating the zone.
“We may be relatively secure, but we must remain proactive. The existing collaboration among South-West states through joint security efforts must be strengthened. We must ensure that nothing undermines the peace and stability of our region,” he stated.
Ogunsan disclosed that Lagos State is significantly expanding its investment in security technology as part of broader efforts to improve crime prevention, intelligence gathering, and rapid response capabilities.
“We are fully migrating towards technology-driven security solutions. Before the end of the year, Lagosians will witness major advancements. We already have effective drone operations, aerial surveillance through helicopters, and intensified patrol activities aimed at identifying and dismantling criminal hideouts,” he revealed.
According to him, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration remains committed to sustained investment in security technology to enhance public safety and improve the operational efficiency of law enforcement agencies.
“The Lagos State Government’s investment in security technology is ongoing and will become even more visible before the end of the year. These innovations will further strengthen the effectiveness of the police and other security agencies,” he said.
Ogunsan also highlighted the importance of intelligence gathering and citizen participation in security management, noting that LSSTF operates an Intelligence Unit designed to complement police operations and provide residents with channels to report concerns and offer feedback on service delivery.
“We have established an Intelligence Unit that supports the work of the police. It provides a platform for Lagosians to share information, report concerns, and contribute to improving security outcomes across the state,” he explained.
He further commended security agencies in Lagos for recent operational successes and praised the leadership of the Lagos State Police Command for sustaining public confidence through effective responses to security incidents.
“The positive results being recorded by our security agencies continue to encourage public support for security interventions. Lagosians can see the impact of the work being done, and that confidence is essential to sustaining our collective efforts,” he said.
The visit reinforced a growing consensus among security stakeholders that the future of policing lies in intelligence-led operations, advanced surveillance technologies, enhanced inter-agency collaboration, and active community participation.
Present at the meeting were the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 2, AIG Olohundare Moshood Jimoh; Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Fatai Tijani; other senior officers of the Lagos State Police Command; LSSTF Director of Administration, Mr. Adegbola Lewis; LSSTF Executive Assistant, Mrs. Adaobi Nwankwo; and other key stakeholders.
