The Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Thursday handed over 260 security vehicles, 1,000 ballistic helmets, 1,000 bulletproof vests, and other security gadgets to the police. He stated that his administration’s vision is to build a secure, proactive, and technologically empowered state capable of addressing modern security challenges.
Governor Sanwo-Olu made this statement during the 18th Annual Town Hall Meeting on Security, themed “Data and Technology-Driven Security: The Way Forward,” held at the Lagos House, Ikeja. The event was attended by security chiefs, including the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, captains of industry, and other stakeholders. The governor urged all involved in the state’s security ecosystem to collaborate in realizing this vision.
“I urge government agencies, citizens, and partners to continue working together to transform this vision into reality. Together, we can ensure Lagos remains a beacon of safety, progress, and innovation,” Sanwo-Olu said.
He emphasized his administration’s unwavering commitment to supporting security agencies in ensuring the safety of citizens, their properties, and businesses. He reiterated the government’s focus on leveraging data and technology to revolutionize community protection across Lagos State.
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The governor also highlighted his administration’s dedication to collaborating with the private sector to enhance and strengthen the state’s security architecture. He noted that the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), since its establishment 17 years ago, has consistently supported security agencies by initiating programs, providing training, and deploying technological solutions to improve security.
While appreciating the efforts of the LSSTF, led by Dr. Abdurrazaq Balogun and his team, Sanwo-Olu also commended individual and corporate donors. He gave special recognition to Zenith Bank and philanthropists Femi Otedola and Tony Elumelu, who contributed ₦1 billion and ₦500 million, respectively.
He encouraged Lagos residents, both corporate and individual, to actively contribute to creating a safer state.
“You can contribute by reporting suspicious activities through our emergency hotlines, participating in community safety programs, and staying informed about safety guidelines. Together, we can build a safer, more secure, and prosperous future for Lagos,” the governor said.
He further outlined achievements in improving the state’s security framework, including the deployment of 450 Intelligent Video Surveillance Cameras in key areas across Lagos. These cameras, connected to the Lagos State Command and Control Center, use advanced video analytics to detect unusual activities, enabling security agencies to respond quickly and effectively.
The Inspector General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, praised the government’s efforts, stating that the provision of such a large number of vehicles demonstrated Lagos’ commitment to excellence.
“It is no wonder thousands of people migrate to Lagos every day. However, this influx has significant security implications. Without the support of the government, we would have been overwhelmed,” Egbetokun acknowledged.
“There was a time bank robberies were rampant in the state, but since 2007, bank robberies have become a thing of the past in Lagos,” he noted.
“The assets handed over today will greatly enhance the operational capabilities of the police,” Egbetokun assured.
Earlier, the Executive Secretary of the LSSTF, Dr. Abdurrazaq Balogun, remarked that Lagos continues to thrive, experiencing robust infrastructure growth and fostering daily activities with minimal security incidents, despite widespread concerns.
Balogun revealed that over ₦1.896 billion was spent in 2024 on routine services, refurbishments, equipment procurement, and other operational needs for the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), the Police Command, Marine Police, and other security agencies.
However, he cautioned that significant challenges remain, stating, “The journey ahead is still long, as evolving technology, rising costs, and associated expenses continue to pose challenges.”
