Sanwo-Olu targets N7bn funding to strengthen security in Lagos

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has unveiled an ambitious plan to bolster security infrastructure in Lagos with the announcement to raise N7 billion in support of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF).

The LSSTF, an interventionist agency of the state government jointly funded by the private sector, plays a key role in the provision of equipment: operational vehicles, ammunition, armoured personnel carriers, and security vests, among others, to agencies operating in Lagos, including the police and the military.

The targeted N7bn funding, according to Sanwo-Olu, aims to further enhance the capabilities of the security agencies. Additionally, the governor pledged the provision of 300 vehicles to bolster the logistical operations of security operatives across the state.

Sanwo-Olu unveiled this on Tuesday at the 17th annual Lagos town hall meeting on security organised by LSSTF under the theme “Security complexities and convergence: The Lagos State imperatives,”,

He highlighted the significance of the gathering as an avenue to assess the fund’s activities over the past year and present its audit report. This platform also served to unveil the state’s commitment to community policing strategies geared toward ensuring the safety of lives and property.

“We recognise security as a multifaceted challenge. Today, we pledge our commitment to creating a safer community,” remarked Governor Sanwo-Olu, underlining the administration’s steadfast dedication to fortifying security measures.

Moreover, the governor emphasised the government’s plan to construct a dedicated agency building for LSSTF and announced an upcoming fundraising dinner aimed at further augmenting the existing N2 billion already secured.

Highlighting the state’s comprehensive approach to security enhancement, the governor also revealed plans for the establishment of the largest mental health rehabilitation centre in the country. He urged community leaders to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activities to security agencies.

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Minister praises LSSTF

Also, at the event, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, the minister of State for Police Affairs, lauded the LSSTF as a working model that could be replicated at the national level, pledging federal support towards bolstering the operational capabilities of the Nigeria Police Force.

“We are committed to strengthening security in Lagos, the economic hub of Nigeria, fostering internal collaboration among all security agencies,” stated Sulaiman-Ibrahim, who also pledged a personal donation of 1 million naira to the LSSTF.

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AIG lauds LSSTF’s role in securing Lagos

Acknowledging the pivotal role of the LSSTF in reinforcing security efforts, Ali Mohammed, the Assistant Inspector-General of Police for Zone 2, recommended the use of technology, advocating for the integration of ICT facilities such as GIS systems and biometrics in police stations to combat criminal activities like interstate robberies.

Further amplifying the success stories, Waheed Ayilara, the acting Commissioner of Police for Lagos State, highlighted the significant achievements made in curbing crime within the state. He praised the contributions of corporate organisations and individuals, underscoring their role as partners in the fight against crime.

From October 2022 to September 2023, the Lagos State Police Command reported notable milestones. Out of 189 robbery incidents, 172 were thwarted, resulting in the arrest of 257 suspects. Moreover, 175 cultists were arrested and 108 of them have been arraigned in court, demonstrating the state’s proactive approach to tackling crime.

The report also outlined achievements in recovering stolen vehicles, curbing motorcycle-related crimes, and addressing gender-based offenses, showcasing a downward trend in criminal activities owing to stringent law enforcement measures.

“Our efforts have paid off as Lagos State still retains the record for the longest number of years without a bank robbery,” Ayilara said. “Our security agencies have been able keep home invasions at a minimum while seriously tackling cases of kidnapping and other emerging security matters.

“We achieved this through the magnanimous donations of a few corporate organisations and individuals with the support of the Lagos State Government and Local Governments/Local Council Development Areas,” he continued. “To these organisations, we are truly grateful, and we consider them partners in this war against crime. With your help, Lagos has become a haven for a lot of people who, for one reason or the other, have made Lagos their home.