The newly appointed Executive Secretary/CEO of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan, has outlined a comprehensive plan to deepen collaboration, boost transparency, and drive innovation in the state’s security architecture.
Speaking during his first media engagement in Lagos, Dr. Ogunsan thanked Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for the confidence reposed in him, noting that he looks forward to building on the achievements of his predecessors. He described the appointment as “a call to service” and reaffirmed his commitment to the safety and well-being of over 20 million Lagos residents.
As Nigeria’s commercial hub and one of Africa’s fastest-growing megacities, Lagos faces complex security challenges driven by rapid population growth, urban expansion, and rising digital threats. Dr. Ogunsan said tackling these issues requires modern, intelligence-led policing backed by strong public and private sector partnership — the founding philosophy of the LSSTF.
Over the years, LSSTF has supported security agencies with patrol vehicles, communication gadgets, bulletproof vests, marine tools, personnel training and other vital assets, all made possible through corporate and individual donations.
Retail Donations, Technology and q Engagement at the Centre of New Drive
The new CEO announced that the Fund will soon launch a renewed retail donation campaign aimed at giving every Lagos resident the opportunity to contribute — irrespective of the amount.
“Whether it is ₦500 or ₦50 million, what matters is participation,” he said. “Security is personal, and everyone has a role to play.”
He revealed plans for an expansive awareness drive, digital donation platforms, youth-focused programmes, volunteer initiatives and strengthened community engagement.
Dr. Ogunsan also encouraged donations in kind, especially surveillance devices, emergency response tools, tracking systems, and data technology. He called on professionals in cybersecurity, behavioural science, engineering, psychology, criminology, data science and related fields to contribute their expertise toward building a more advanced security ecosystem.
Journalists Suggest New Ways to Boost Donations and Enforcement
During the media interaction, journalists proposed additional strategies to help the Fund expand donations and strengthen enforcement using some of the newly donated vehicles.
They recommended that LSSTF establish donation and suggestion boxes in strategic public locations such as local government offices, police stations, supermarkets, major bank branches and other high-traffic areas across the state. According to the journalists, these boxes would give residents a simple, direct way to support security initiatives or share observations on security concerns.
They also urged the Fund to explore partnerships with beverage companies, similar to models used abroad where a fraction of the cost of certain products automatically supports security or social causes.
Such collaborations, they said, would make it easier for millions of Lagosians — including low-income earners — to contribute through everyday purchases.
Dr. Ogunsan welcomed the suggestions, noting that innovative, community-driven ideas are essential for building a sustainable and inclusive security support system.
Transparency to be a Core Standard
“When partners contribute, they should see real progress — safer communities and stronger law enforcement,” he said.
Town Hall Meeting Holds December 11
As part of its accountability measures, the 19th Annual Town Hall Meeting on Security is scheduled for December 11, 2025, at Eko Hotel & Suites, Victoria Island. The event will feature the Fund’s stewardship report, a briefing on emerging security trends by the Commissioner of Police, and the unveiling of new security priorities by Governor Sanwo-Olu. Stakeholders will also deliberate on shared safety solutions.
Dr. Ogunsan concluded by calling on businesses, communities, professionals and residents to join hands in building a safer Lagos.
“When security grows, prosperity grows. When safety strengthens, confidence returns. When we work together, Lagos rises,” he said.
