By Ayomide Otitoju
The Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Thursday reiterated his administration’s dedication to safeguarding lives, property, and investments in the state, while urging citizens to actively participate in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges. He spoke at the 19th Annual Town Hall Meeting on Security, themed “Building Trust, Enhancing Security: A New Era of Security and Partnerships”, held at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.
The event, organized by the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), drew government officials, captains of industry, traditional and religious leaders, security personnel, and other stakeholders.
Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized that security is a shared responsibility, noting that collaboration between government, communities, and the private sector is essential. “This town hall reaffirms our collective commitment to safeguarding lives, properties, investments, and the future of Lagos,” he said.
In line with his administration’s THEMES+ Agenda, which prioritizes security and governance, the Governor donated 100 operational vehicles to state security agencies to strengthen their capacity. The vehicles were procured jointly by the Lagos State Government and Conference 57, representing the 20 Local Government Areas and 37 Local Council Development Areas in the state.
Sanwo-Olu also announced that philanthropist Sir Kensington Adebutu will construct a purpose-built LSSTF headquarters, to be completed within 12 months, describing it as a landmark contribution to Lagos’ long-term security infrastructure.
Highlighting the importance of trust and partnerships in security, the Governor said the state aligns with federal initiatives under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes modernized security, intelligence coordination, and community-led strategies. “Lagos stands ready as a model partner, demonstrating that security funding can be transparent, collaborative, and impactful,” he added.
Key priorities outlined for Lagos’ security strategy include sustainability through public-private collaboration, continuous modernization and technology adoption, intelligence-led policing, accountability, community engagement, and preparedness for emerging challenges.
Executive Secretary of LSSTF, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan, praised the Governor’s investments in security, noting the Fund’s achievements in vehicles, infrastructure, and human capacity development. LSSTF Chairman, Mr. Kehinde Durosimi-Etti, called on private individuals, corporate organizations, students, and youths to contribute to security initiatives.
Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, Jimoh Olohundare, reported robust law enforcement between October 2024 and September 2025, with 9,275 arrests, prevention of 141 armed robberies, recovery of 518 ammunition pieces, and foiling of multiple criminal activities.
The event culminated with the presentation of Awards of Gallantry to the Commissioner of Police Special Squad One for foiling a July 2024 kidnap attempt in Ladipo, commending the officers for their professionalism and dedication.
Governor Sanwo-Olu reiterated that every investment in security is an investment in peace, order, and prosperity, and called for continuous cooperation between the government, private sector, and citizens to build a safe Lagos.
