Lagos to make monthly security training a permanent feature due to rising threats

The Lagos State Security Trust Fund has announced it will make its monthly Statewide Inter-Agency Training Programme a permanent part of the state's security system. This move aims to boost the skills of security personnel and improve how they respond to new security challenges.

Ayodele Ogunsan, the Executive Secretary of the LSSTF, shared this news on Wednesday during the July training event in Lagos. He stated that ongoing training is key to keeping Lagos as one of the safest states in Nigeria.

Ogunsan said the idea for this initiative came after the agency looked at its responsibilities. They realized that, apart from providing tools and equipment, it is also important to invest in the people who manage security.

He noted that while support and equipment are necessary, the success of any security force relies on the skills and ability of its members. The monthly training aims to improve how security agencies work, encourage good leadership, and promote teamwork among the various agencies in the state.

Ogunsan mentioned, "I strongly believe that people remain the greatest asset of any organisation. Equipment is important, and logistics are essential, but it is the human being behind every operation that ultimately determines success or failure."

He added, "Beyond the lectures, this programme offers something equally valuable, networking. I encourage every participant to engage, ask questions, build relationships and take full advantage of this opportunity."

The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Fatai Tijani, praised Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the LSSTF, and Ogunsan for their commitment to what he called a transformative effort in developing human capacity. He noted that officers who attended previous training sessions came back with better skills and a more professional attitude towards policing.

Tijani explained that this initiative has also helped improve cooperation between agencies. It allows security personnel to meet, share ideas, and build lasting professional connections.

"The impact has been remarkable. Whenever our officers return from this programme, we see a noticeable difference in their attitude, professionalism and performance. They come back better equipped, and the positive change is evident.

"Beyond the classroom sessions, this programme has deepened the teamwork among security agencies. We make friends, exchange ideas, compare experiences and build relationships that continue long after the training," he said.

Mr Babajide Adisa, the Director of the Department of State Services in Lagos, also spoke about the initiative through his Deputy Director of Security Vetting, Mr Waheed Akande. He said the programme is timely and will strengthen cooperation, skills, and coordination among security agencies.

MC Ayodele Ajayi, the Lagos State Commander of Man O’ War Nigeria, echoed these sentiments, stating that the training has become essential for building trust, sharing best practices, and improving intelligence sharing among security agencies.

Apostle Kehinde Showemimo, Chairman of the Police Community Relations Committee, Lagos Command, also praised the initiative. He encouraged participants to make the most of the opportunity to strengthen partnerships and promote community-based policing.