By Mathew Johnson

Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Olohundare Jimoh, has reassured residents of the state of the Command’s unwavering commitment to intelligence-driven policing as part of efforts to enhance security and public safety.

Speaking during a live broadcast of News Central’s programme, “A Place at The Table,” the CP engaged residents in an open conversation on crime prevention, patrol visibility and community safety, stressing that modern policing thrives on credible intelligence and active citizens’ collaboration.

The programme, themed “Is the Police Your Friend?” featured notable personalities including actress Kate Henshaw, Bright Jaja, Funke Treasure, security analyst Gbenga Ademujimi and retired Commissioner of Police, Fatai Owoseni. Viewers also participated through phone calls, social media interactions and live studio engagements, raising concerns bordering on neighbourhood security, cybercrime, traffic enforcement and police response time.
CP Jimoh emphasised that effective policing in a complex urban centre like Lagos must be guided by data and informed decision-making.
According to him, “Modern policing relies on accurate information and collaboration with residents. While it is easy to criticise, effective policing requires officers to be on the ground, making informed operational decisions based on actionable intelligence.”
He disclosed that the Lagos Command had intensified ongoing initiatives aimed at strengthening data-driven policing strategies to proactively combat crime across the state.
Panelists at the session, however, drew attention to systemic challenges confronting policing in Nigeria.
Security analyst, Gbenga Ademujimi, observed that chronic underfunding continues to limit operational effectiveness within the Nigeria Police Force, noting that many divisional stations still function with inadequate logistics despite the Force’s 2024 budgetary allocation of N969 billion.
On his part, retired CP Fatai Owoseni underscored the need for accountability and renewed public confidence in law enforcement institutions.
“We must admit that there is a trust deficit, and it is not limited to the police alone; citizens equally struggle to trust government institutions,” he said.
Participants commended the interactive nature of the programme, describing it as a platform that would promote transparency, counters misinformation and encourages shared responsibility between security agencies and the public in tackling crime.