The Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), in partnership with the Lagos State Police Command and the Nigeria Police Air Wing, has intensified security measures through aerial surveillance operations across the state.
The initiative, aimed at improving security coverage and reassuring residents, was disclosed in a statement issued on Sunday by the Executive Secretary of the LSSTF, Ayodele Ogunsan.
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According to Ogunsan, the aerial patrol exercise was conducted on Friday across key areas on both the mainland and island sections of Lagos. He noted that the operation provided security agencies with real-time intelligence and enhanced their ability to respond swiftly to potential threats.
He described the surveillance programme as a strategic effort to improve public safety, strengthen emergency response mechanisms, and support ongoing security operations designed to protect lives and property.
Ogunsan revealed that aerial monitoring would now form a regular component of Lagos State’s security framework.
He said, “We launched this initiative several months ago and made it clear that its purpose is not to intimidate residents but to encourage Lagosians to work with security agencies in safeguarding the state.
“The maiden operation was highly successful, and residents responded positively. We assured the public that the exercise would continue, and today’s operation is part of that commitment.
“We have quietly maintained these patrols over time, but given the current security concerns across the country, it has become necessary to keep residents informed.”
He further disclosed that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu had directed security stakeholders to reassure Lagosians that the state remains secure despite security challenges being experienced in some parts of Nigeria.
According to him, the governor remains committed to ensuring the safety of residents and has made security one of the top priorities of his administration.
“This message is intended to reassure Lagosians that they have a government that is fully committed to protecting them and preserving peace across the state,” Ogunsan said.
He added that the state government would continue to support national security efforts through coordinated surveillance and enforcement activities across air, land and maritime domains.
“As partners in securing the state, we want residents to know that Lagos remains secure on land, in the air and along its waterways. This is our contribution to strengthening national security.
“Our patrols will cover every part of the state, helping us identify vulnerable locations and respond appropriately to emerging threats,” he stated.
Ogunsan also appealed to residents not to be alarmed by the increased movement of aircraft involved in surveillance activities.
“In the coming days, Lagosians will notice more aerial activity. There is no cause for concern when you hear helicopters or surveillance yaircraft overhead. These operations are being carried out for your safety and protection,” he explained.
Speaking on the exercise, the Commissioner of Police, Fatai Tijani, said the patrols were intended to reassure the public and demonstrate the readiness of security agencies to combat criminal activities.
He noted that the operation underscored the police force’s capacity to monitor and respond to threats beyond conventional ground patrols.
“This exercise is meant to boost public confidence and assure residents that security personnel are fully prepared to protect them. The police presence is no longer limited to roads and communities; it now extends to the skies.
“With surveillance coverage across land, water and air, criminals will find it increasingly difficult to evade law enforcement,” Tijani stated.
The LSSTF maintained that the aerial surveillance programme would be sustained as part of broader efforts to enhance intelligence gathering, strengthen monitoring capabilities and improve operational efficiency across Lagos State.
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