L-R: Director of Admin, Lagos State Security Trust Fund, LSSTF, Mr. Degbola Lewis; Executive Secretary/CEO, LSSTF, Dr. Ayo Ogunsan and Executive Assistant, LSSTF, Mrs. Adaobi Nwankwo during the new ES/CEO, LSSTF, Dr. Ogunsan’s Strategic Media Engagements with Senior Editors and Security Journalists at the agency’s office, Alausa, Ikeja.
Executive Secretary/CEO, Lagos State Security Trust Fund, LSSTF, Dr. Ayo Ogunsan (m); Director of Admin, LSSTF, Mr. Degbola Lewis (4th right); Executive Assistant, LSSTF, Mrs. Adaobi (5th left); Nwankwo with cross session of Senior Editors and Security Journalists during the new ES/CEO, LSSTF, Dr. Ogunsan’s Strategic Media Engagements with Senior Editors and Security Journalists at the agency’s office, Alausa, Ikeja.
With calm confidence and a clear sense of duty, the newly appointed Executive Secretary/CEO of the Lagos State Security the Trust Fund (LSSTF) addressed members of the press, unveiling a bold, citizen-driven vision for the future of security in Africa’s fastest-growing megacity.
Standing before journalists, he described his appointment as “a call to service,” affirming his commitment to the more than 20 million Lagosians who depend on a secure environment to live, work, dream, and thrive. He expressed deep gratitude to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for the trust reposed in him and pledged to build on the firm foundation laid by his predecessors.
A Megacity with Growing Complexities
As the commercial heartbeat of Nigeria, Lagos continues to expand at an unprecedented pace. But with growth comes evolving security challenges, population pressures, mobility strain, and increasingly complex digital threats.
“Traditional methods alone are no longer enough,” the CEO emphasized. “Lagos must embrace innovation, strengthen collaboration, and deliver a security response that is swift, modern, and people-centered.”
The LSSTF, created on the farsighted belief that government cannot secure the State alone, has been at the forefront of driving public-private security collaboration. Over the years, contributions from corporate partners and well-meaning individuals have funded patrol vehicles, communication gadgets, bulletproof vests, marine equipment, and extensive training for law-enforcement officers.
A New Era of Accountability and Citizen Participation
The CEO announced a renewed direction anchored on transparency, innovation, and public involvement. Central to this agenda is a fresh drive for retail donations, inviting every Lagos resident, from business owners to students, to contribute to a safer city.
“Security is personal,” he said. “Whether it is ₦500 or ₦50 million, participation is what matters. When many people join hands, the impact is powerful.”
Planned initiatives include:
A statewide public awareness campaign
Digital donation platforms for easy giving
Youth-focused volunteer channels
Grassroots and community-based engagements
He stressed that young people, who consistently express a desire to make an impact, will now have structured avenues to channel their passion into meaningful security development.
Beyond Funding: Technology, Expertise and Innovation
Recognizing that money alone cannot defeat modern threats, LSSTF is opening its doors to donations in kind, ranging from surveillance technology and emergency response tools to expert services in cybersecurity, criminology, behavioural psychology, engineering, and data intelligence.
“To innovators, researchers and specialists, Lagos needs your knowledge,” he declared. “Together, we can build a more proactive and technologically advanced security architecture.”
A Promise of Transparency
Rebuilding and sustaining public confidence is a top priority. The Fund, under his leadership, will maintain strict oversight of contractors, track funded projects, publish regular updates, and enhance governance structures.
“When people contribute, they should see real results, safer communities, faster response times, and stronger law-enforcement capacity,” he assured.
All Eyes on December 11: Town Hall on Security
As part of efforts to deepen accountability, the LSSTF announced that the 19th Town Hall Meeting on Security will hold on December 11, 2025, at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island.
The gathering, now regarded as Lagos’ most important collaborative security forum, will feature:
The Fund’s presentation of its stewardship
Briefing from the Commissioner of Police on emerging crime patterns
The Governor’s unveiling of strategic security priorities for the coming year
High-level stakeholder dialogues on shared solutions
A Call to Secure Lagos Together
In a compelling closing message, the CEO extended a broad invitation to every segment of society:
“To businesses e your support keeps the economy thriving.
To communities — your involvement keeps neighbourhoods safe.
To professionals, your expertise can shape our future.
To citizens, your participation matters more than you know.”
He painted a vivid picture of the Lagos everyone strives for: a city where children learn without fear, businesses operate round the clock, transport systems run safely, and every resident enjoys peace of mind.
“When security grows, prosperity grows. When safety strengthens, confidence returns. When we work together, Lagos rises,” he concluded.
As Lagos journeys toward a safer, smarter, and more inclusive security future, the message is unmistakable, the responsibility is shared, and the time is now.