The Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), in collaboration with the Lagos State Police Command and the Nigeria Police Air Wing, has intensified efforts to strengthen security across Lagos with an extensive aerial surveillance patrol covering major parts of the state.
The security operation, led by the Executive Secretary/CEO of LSSTF, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan, was carried out across key mainland and island corridors of Lagos to enhance intelligence gathering, improve rapid-response operations, and reassure residents of the government’s commitment to safety.
Also part of the exercise were the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Fatai Tijani; ACP Nsikan Boniface of the Nigeria Police Air Wing Department, Force Headquarters; Pilot CSP Dazi Manga; Admin Officer, RRS Lagos, DSP Saka Ayodele; and LSSTF Director of Administration, Mr. Degbola Lewis.
Speaking before the patrol, Dr. Ogunsan described the initiative as a proactive strategy aimed at sustaining Lagos’ reputation as one of the safest states in the country.
According to him, the aerial surveillance exercise is not a one-off operation but a continuous security intervention designed to support law enforcement agencies in protecting lives and property.
“We started this mission a few months ago, and we stated very clearly that we are not here to frighten anyone but to encourage Lagosians to support us in keeping Lagos safe,” Ogunsan said.
He noted that the initial surveillance mission recorded positive feedback from residents, prompting the continuation of the exercise.
“The first exercise was successful, and Lagosians responded positively. We promised to sustain it, and this is a follow-up operation. We have been carrying out these exercises quietly, but because of the current tension in the land, it is important to keep residents informed,” he added.
Ogunsan further conveyed assurances from Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu that the security of Lagos remains a top priority for the state government.
“The Governor has directed us to assure Lagosians that Lagos is safe. Security remains his priority, and he is working tirelessly to ensure the state remains secure. This is a message of hope, comfort, and reassurance to residents,” he stated.
He stressed that security efforts would continue across air, land, and sea, adding that the initiative represents Lagos State’s contribution to national security efforts.
“We are assuring Lagosians that our air, land, and sea are safe. While President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is doing a lot to ensure Nigeria is secure, subnational governments must also contribute their quota. We are taking to the skies to patrol Lagos and identify areas of concern to ensure prompt action is taken,” Ogunsan said.
The LSSTF boss also appealed to residents not to panic over the increased presence of low-flying surveillance aircraft across the state in the coming days
.
“In the next few days, the air will be very busy, but Lagosians should not be alarmed by the sound of aircraft around their areas. These are security operations meant for your safety,” he explained.
On his part, the Commissioner of Police, CP Fatai Tijani, said the aerial patrols were aimed at boosting public confidence and sending a strong message to criminal elements.
“This operation is to reassure the public that the Police are fully prepared to protect them. Criminals should know there is no hiding place for them on land, sea, or in the air,” Tijani stated.
The aerial surveillance operations, facilitated by LSSTF, are expected to continue as part of broader efforts to improve intelligence gathering, strengthen operational efficiency, and combat criminal activities across Lagos.