Sanwo-Olu seeks funds for critical security needs in Lagos, defends Makoko demolition

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has appealed to individuals and corporate organisations to support his administration’s efforts to strengthen security of lives and property through increased funding of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF).

The governor made the appeal on Friday during a private breakfast meeting with select Managing Directors and Chief Executive Officers of various companies in Ikoyi, Lagos. 

The meeting was organised by the LSSTF to raise funds for critical security needs in 2026.

Sanwo-Olu said the funds would be used to procure multipurpose security helicopters and drones, armoured personnel carriers (APCs), water cannons, digital communication equipment and smart CCTV cameras. 

Other priorities include tactical training, infrastructural upgrades for the police, patrol vehicles, and the establishment of an ultra-modern mechanical workshop.

He noted that the Lagos State Government continues to shoulder more than half of the state’s annual security funding, stressing that private sector support has been crucial in sustaining the LSSTF model.

“On a year-on-year basis, the Lagos State Government has never taken a back seat on its responsibility. We still fund well over 50 per cent of whatever happens yearly,” the governor said, adding that accountability and transparency in the use of funds have earned the trust of contributors.

According to him, the state is rebuilding its Command and Control Centre with state-of-the-art equipment and expanding its Safe City initiative, including the installation of CCTV cameras across the state. 

He said the government also aims to improve the capacity and response time of first responders.

Speaking on recent protests against demolitions in parts of Makoko, Sanwo-Olu defended the government’s actions, describing them as being in the overall public interest and necessary for public safety.

He explained that the structures had been encroaching dangerously close to the Third Mainland Bridge and high-tension power lines, posing serious risks to residents.

 “We are not going to sit down and allow a disaster to happen that could claim hundreds of lives,” he said, adding that the government merely pushed the settlements back to prevent potential tragedies.

The governor dismissed allegations that the administration was deliberately displacing residents, insisting that the actions were taken solely to protect lives. 

He also criticised some non-governmental organisations, accusing them of exploiting the situation for financial gain.

Sanwo-Olu assured residents that his administration remains committed to improving the welfare of Lagosians, not taking anything away from them.

He further disclosed plans to commission 35 schools accommodating about 22,000 students in the Tolu community of Ajegunle next month. 

The governor also highlighted the resolution of the long-standing Okobaba sawmill challenge as part of the administration’s broader urban renewal efforts.

He reiterated his government’s commitment to security, education and sustainable development across Lagos State.