KEY POINTS
- Lagos surveillance drones to boost aerial intelligence.
- There will be a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Air Force and Police Airwing.
- Trust Fund adds 80 patrol vehicles and restores APCs.
The Lagos State Government wants to work with federal security services to use surveillance drones as part of a bigger effort to improve intelligence collecting and respond more quickly to new threats.
Ayodele Ogunsan, the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund, spoke about the project at a news conference marking his first 100 days in office. He added that the state would sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the Nigerian Air Force and the Nigeria Police Airwing to work together on security operations in the air. “The Fund will work towards signing a Memorandum of Understanding with the Nigerian Air Force and the Nigerian Police Airwing to support aerial surveillance across Lagos State,” Ogunsan said, adding that Unmanned Aerial Vehicles would enhance intelligence and rapid response capability.
Plan for Drones to Watch Over Lagos
Furthermore, the Lagos State Government designed the surveillance drones programme to strengthen aerial monitoring across Africa’s most populous city and commercial hub. Ogunsan said sustained investment in security infrastructure remains critical to safeguarding lives, property and economic activity.
Alongside the drone deployment, the Trust Fund has expanded its financial base through new fundraising channels, including crowdfunding, while deepening engagement with private sector organisations and public institutions.
To make the state’s security network more visible and quicker to respond, the Fund has also acquired 80 operational and patrol cars. More vehicles are expected, Ogunsan said.
Money and security improvements
Ogunsan also said that one donor has promised to build a permanent office facility for the Trust Fund, in addition to the Lagos surveillance drones project. The agency has already begun refurbishing and rehabilitating abandoned Armoured Personnel Carriers so security forces can return them to active service.
Training programs for security services around the state are about to start. They will focus on modern techniques, professionalism, and service delivery standards. Ogunsan said again that the Fund is committed to being open and responsible as it grows its operational capability.
Since his appointment, the Trust Fund has recorded donations from corporations and individuals, including a N1 billion contribution from telecommunications company Globacom. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu also recently convened a town hall meeting with stakeholders to address security concerns and outline collaborative measures to strengthen safety across the state.
