Sanwo-Olu calls for collective action to tackle Lagos security challenges

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has urged Nigerians, particularly Lagos residents, to work together with government to find lasting solutions to the country’s security challenges, emphasizing that safeguarding lives and property is a shared responsibility.

Speaking 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, Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting lives, property, investments, and the future of Lagos.

He also pledged continued collaboration with the Federal Government and other security agencies to achieve a safer society.

At the event, organised by the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), the Governor handed over 100 operational vehicles to security agencies, procured jointly by the Lagos State Government and Conference 57, representing the State’s 20 Local Government Areas and 37 Local Council Development Areas.

He also announced plans by philanthropist Sir Kensington Adebutu to build a new headquarters for LSSTF, to be completed within 12 months.

Governor Sanwo-Olu highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships and citizen participation in security, stressing that “every investment in security is a direct investment in peace, order, and prosperity.”

He commended federal reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which he said complements Lagos’ security initiatives, and outlined key priorities for the state’s strategy, including modernisation, intelligence-led policing, transparency, community engagement, and preparedness for emerging threats.

The Governor also introduced new members of the LSSTF Board of Trustees and praised the contributions of the immediate past Executive Secretary, Dr Abdulrrazaq Balogun.

LSSTF Executive Secretary Dr Ayodele Ogunsan highlighted the Fund’s achievements, including infrastructure development, acquisition of security vehicles, and human capacity building, while Police Commissioner Jimoh Olohundare reported that Lagos’ security architecture had successfully foiled 141 armed robbery cases, recorded 142 murders, and arrested 9,275 suspects between October 2024 and September 2025.

The event culminated in the presentation of Awards of Gallantry to the Police Special Squad One for foiling a kidnap case in Ladipo and neutralising nine kidnappers, with recovered weapons.

Governor Sanwo-Olu commended the officers for their professionalism and urged continued dedication, transparency, and compassion in service.