By Efe Onodjae

The Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF) has announced the deployment of 80 additional operational and patrol vehicles to security agencies across Lagos as part of activities marking his first 100 days in office.

Speaking at a press conference in Lagos, the LSSTF boss, Ayo Ogunsan, said the Fund has also commenced statewide repairs and restoration of abandoned Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) to return them to operational use, while more patrol vehicles are expected to be delivered in the coming months.

He noted that the Fund, established to mobilise resources from corporate organisations, public institutions and well-meaning individuals to strengthen the security architecture of Lagos, remains strategic to the safety of lives and property in Nigeria’s commercial nerve centre. According to him, his immediate focus upon assumption of office was to strengthen the financial base of the Fund through aggressive stakeholder engagement and strategic fundraising initiatives.

“We introduced new fundraising channels, including crowdfunding initiatives, and intensified engagement with private sector organisations, public institutions and individuals who share our vision of a safer Lagos,” he said.

The Executive Secretary disclosed that a high-level fundraising breakfast meeting involving key public and private sector stakeholders was successfully held, reinforcing what he described as the shared responsibility of security in the state.

Among other milestones recorded within the period, he listed the revival of retail donation channels to encourage wider public participation in supporting security initiatives, as well as the introduction of an LSSTF Monitoring Team to ensure proper tracking, accountability and maintenance of security assets.

He further revealed that a sole donor had committed to the construction of a permanent office complex for the Fund, with work already commenced and delivery expected by October this year.

The Fund also hosted its Annual Town Hall Meeting on Security, providing a platform for engagement between security agencies, government and residents. Dedicated security officers were recognised and honoured for their service at the event.

In addition, the LSSTF secured vehicle donations from automobile manufacturers operating in Lagos and extended support to tertiary institutions across the state through the donation of security vehicles and equipment to enhance campus safety. As part of efforts to boost manpower development, the Fund supported advocacy campaigns encouraging Lagos youths to join the Police and other security agencies.

Looking ahead, the Executive Secretary said the next 100 days would focus on deepening operational impact across key priority areas. He disclosed plans to commence statewide training programmes for security agencies to equip officers with modern tactical skills and professional standards. The Fund also intends to procure additional security equipment and operational accessories to strengthen rapid response capability.

Of particular note, he announced moves to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the Nigerian Air Force and the Nigeria Police Force Airwing to support aerial surveillance operations across Lagos State, including the deployment of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (drones) to enhance intelligence gathering and coordinated security operations.

The Fund, he added, will roll out statewide public enlightenment campaigns against crime and social vices, while collaborating with the Police and the Lagos State Ministry of Basic Education to introduce Safer School Patrol initiatives aimed at improving security around schools. He also disclosed ongoing engagements with stakeholders towards the renovation of dilapidated police stations to improve working conditions for officers and service delivery to residents.

Reaffirming the Fund’s commitment to transparency, accountability and innovation, the Executive Secretary expressed appreciation to the Lagos State Government, corporate partners, donors and residents for their continued support.

“Together, we will continue to build and sustain a safer Lagos for everyone,” he said.