The Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), in partnership with the Lagos State Police Command and the Nigeria Police Air Wing, has carried out an extensive aerial surveillance patrol throughout Lagos State. This initiative aims to maintain Lagos State's reputation as a safe and secure region.
Operation Leadership and Coverage
The operation was led by the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of LSSTF, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan. Senior police officers, including the Commissioner of Police for Lagos State Command, Fatai Tijani; ACP Nsikan Boniface, Pilot from the Nigeria Police Air Wing Department at Force Headquarters; CSP Dazi Manga, Pilot and Admin Officer of RRS Lagos; DSP Saka Ayodele; and LSSTF's Director of Administration, Mr. Degbola Lewis, also participated. The patrol covered key zones across both the mainland and island corridors of Lagos, providing real-time situational awareness and supporting intelligence-led security operations.
Proactive Security Measure
Dr. Ogunsan described the initiative as a proactive measure to enhance public safety, strengthen rapid-response capabilities, and offer additional support to security agencies tasked with protecting lives and property in Lagos. He emphasized that these aerial patrols are not a one-time event but will become a regular component of the state's security framework. Ogunsan stated, "We started this mission a few months ago, and we made it clear that we are not here to frighten anyone but to encourage Lagosians to support us in keeping Lagos safe. The first exercise was successful, and Lagosians responded well. We promised to continue, and this is a follow-up. We have been operating silently, but due to the current tension, it is important to keep the public informed."
He further noted that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has directed them to assure residents that Lagos is safe and that security remains his top priority. "This is a message of hope, comfort, encouragement, and assurance that you have a caring leader who prioritizes security," Ogunsan added. He also highlighted that this is a subnational contribution to national security, acknowledging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's efforts while stressing the need for local contributions.
Public Reassurance
Dr. Ogunsan urged Lagosians not to be alarmed by the increased presence of low-flying surveillance aircraft in the coming days. "In the next few days, the air will be busy, but I assure Lagosians not to be scared when they hear aircraft sounds. We are your people, not strange forces, and we will ensure the right actions are taken," he said.
Commissioner of Police Fatai Tijani also emphasized the importance of air surveillance: "This boosts public confidence that the Police are ready to secure them. It tells Lagosians that the Police are not just on land but also in the air. By hovering over the state, we ensure there is no hiding place for criminals on land, sea, or air."
Sustained Patrols
These aerial patrols, facilitated by LSSTF, will continue on a sustained basis as part of a broader strategy to improve surveillance, intelligence gathering, and operational effectiveness. The goal is to eliminate all forms of criminality in Lagos, the nation's commercial nerve center.
