Susan Abayomi
The Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), under the leadership of its Executive Secretary/CEO, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan, has emphasised the importance of physical fitness, mental resilience and healthy living in strengthening the effectiveness of security personnel.
The emphasis was made during the September edition of the LSSTF Statewide Inter-Agency Training Programme for security operatives in Lagos, which focused on health and wellness as essential components of operational readiness.
Represented by the Executive Assistant, Mrs. Adaobi Nwankwo, Ogunsan reaffirmed the Fund’s commitment to improving the capacity and welfare of security personnel through continuous, practical and multidisciplinary training.
He stressed that security officers must be physically, mentally and emotionally prepared to cope with the demands of their duties, noting that welfare, training and operational effectiveness are closely connected.
Speaking during the health session, Dr. Diya Ololade Oluwadamilola, Executive Director and Deputy Director of Clinical Services at Atlantis Pediatric and Multi-specialist Hospital, described the initiative as an effort to “protect our protectors.”
Diya, a board-certified family and lifestyle physician, said security personnel often put their lives and family welfare at risk in the course of protecting citizens. He explained that the medical component of the programme was designed to help officers improve their quality of life and detect health risks early.
He also introduced the FRESH Protocol—Food, Reduce stressors, Exercise, Sleep, and Health checks and vaccinations—as a practical guide to healthier living.
Participants were taken through basic “know your numbers” checks, including blood pressure, blood sugar, weight and height, to help them understand their health status and identify possible risks.
The nutrition session was handled by Miss Titilayo Akindele, clinical nutrition consultant and founder of NutriFull Clinical Services, who spoke on “Fueling the Force.”
Akindele explained that proper nutrition, hydration and appropriate meal timing can improve energy, concentration and overall performance. She encouraged officers to make healthier choices using familiar Nigerian foods such as beans, yam, fish and leafy vegetables.
She also advised them to reduce excessive consumption of fried foods, sugary drinks and instant noodles, while planning meals ahead and maintaining adequate hydration.
The programme reinforced the LSSTF’s commitment to developing a healthier and more resilient security workforce, with the Fund emphasising that the wellbeing of officers is an important part of Lagos’ overall security architecture.
