Lagos Takes Security to the Skies as LSSTF Deploys Drones to Track Criminals 24/7

Lagos Takes Security to the Skies as LSSTF Deploys Drones to Track Criminals 24/7
Lagos State has significantly strengthened its security architecture with the deployment of advanced drone surveillance technology across strategic locations, a move aimed at enhancing intelligence gathering, crime prevention, and rapid response operations in Africa’s most populous city.
The initiative, driven by the Lagos State Government through the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), marks one of the most ambitious investments in aerial security technology by a sub-national government in Nigeria. Beyond combating crime, the programme is designed to boost investor confidence, support economic growth, and reinforce social stability in Nigeria’s commercial capital.
Speaking on the development, the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the LSSTF, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan, revealed that Lagos has expanded its security monitoring capabilities beyond traditional patrol operations by deploying sophisticated drones capable of round-the-clock surveillance.
“We now have eyes in the skies with drone technology,” Ogunsan said. “Our drones are watching all over Lagos day and night to monitor activities. Criminals and criminally minded persons should be warned to stay away.”
According to him, the technology-driven initiative is not only intended to deter criminal activities but also to reassure residents, businesses, and investors that Lagos remains committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment.
“This is also to assure all law-abiding Lagosians that we are ahead of the game in terms of safety and security,” he added.
The deployment comes as security agencies across the country intensify efforts to tackle emerging threats such as kidnapping, organized crime, vandalism, armed robbery, cult-related violence, and other criminal activities. Recent records from the Lagos State Police Command underscore the growing importance of intelligence gathering and technology in modern policing, with several arrests and recoveries linked to enhanced security operations across the state.
Security experts note that drone surveillance significantly improves situational awareness by enabling law enforcement agencies to monitor hard-to-reach areas, detect suspicious movements, track criminal activities, and coordinate responses more effectively. For a sprawling megacity like Lagos, with its extensive road networks, waterways, industrial hubs, and densely populated communities, aerial surveillance has become an increasingly valuable security tool.
Ogunsan attributed the success of the initiative to the unwavering support of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, whom he described as a strong advocate of public safety and security investment.
“I want to thank the Executive Governor who has made security and safety his priority, Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu. He is the number one champion of safety and security in Lagos,” he said.
The LSSTF boss further stated that the state’s security investments align with broader national efforts to strengthen internal security and protect citizens.
“This is our own effort as a sub-national government to ensure safety and security for Nigeria as championed by our leader, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. We are not going to allow criminals run us over in this country,” he stated.
Highlighting the impact of the drone programme, Ogunsan disclosed that the technology has already yielded operational successes. He cited the recent viral video showing two masked individuals emerging from a forested area near Pan-Atlantic University, explaining that drone surveillance was immediately deployed to support security operations within the area.
“The area was combed using drone surveillance facilitated by the LSSTF as a proactive measure to support police operations,” he revealed.
The development, he noted, demonstrates the practical value of drones in intelligence gathering and early threat detection, particularly in locations where conventional surveillance methods may face limitations.
Ogunsan also issued a stern warning to individuals planning criminal activities within the state.
“Anybody who wants to foment trouble in Lagos should know that we are watching. Our drones are hovering around day and night, monitoring closely for any nefarious activities,” he warned.
He emphasized that the surveillance network covers every part of the state.
“On the mainland, on the island, everywhere, we are monitoring,” he said.
Beyond drone technology, Lagos continues to pursue a multi-layered security strategy involving aerial patrols, intelligence gathering, community engagement, and ground-based law enforcement operations.
“To add to this, our aerial surveillance patrols are still continuing. We have boots on the ground, we have eyes in the skies,” Ogunsan noted.
As Lagos continues to grow economically and demographically, authorities say the adoption of technology-driven security solutions reflects the state’s determination to stay ahead of evolving security threats.
For residents, investors, and visitors, the message is unmistakable: security in Lagos now extends beyond checkpoints and patrol vehicles to the skies above, as the state leverages cutting-edge technology to safeguard lives, property, and economic prosperity.
“Lagos is safe and will continue to be so,” Ogunsan affirmed.