In a bold move to strengthen grassroots security and bolster community protection, the Lagos State Government has recruited over 1,000 new officers into the Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps (LNSC) as part of its ongoing efforts to modernise and expand the scope of the state’s local security infrastructure.
Speaking at the 2025 Annual Ministerial Press Briefing held at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre in Alausa, the Commissioner for Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Relations, Olugbenga Oyerinde, unveiled a string of major reforms and innovations being implemented by the Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Agency.
“In the past year, we have significantly deepened our reach across local communities by recruiting over 1,000 new officers,” Oyerinde said.
“This is more than just a number—it reflects our commitment to ensuring that every ward in Lagos feels the presence of security and order.”
He noted that beyond recruitment, the state has introduced specialised units such as Marine Patrol, Forest Rangers, Human Trafficking and Domestic Violence, Forensics, Crime Scene Management, Paramedics, and Crowd Control.
These units, he said, are geared toward professionalising the agency and adapting to evolving security needs across the state.
To improve operational efficiency, he said the state government has distributed new patrol bicycles, motorcycles, scooters, and vehicles to officers to enable quicker response times.
“We have replaced unserviceable vehicles and introduced patrol bicycles not only to reduce costs but also to make our presence more effective in densely populated areas,” Oyerinde explained.
In a major boost to the state’s intelligence-gathering capacity, the commissioner said the agency has also launched an aerial surveillance programme.
“We now have drone technology actively mapping crime, monitoring hotspots and sending real-time visuals to our situation room,” the Commissioner said.
He added that a state-of-the-art ICT-based situation room has been completed, capable of processing live feeds from the drones and security cameras installed across the state.
The agency has also commissioned three new command offices in Imota, Orile-Agege, and Ijede, while renovating 19 others across the state. Solar power systems have been installed in all 57 local government and LCDA command centres to ensure 24-hour operations regardless of power outages.
“Our goal is simple but strategic—take security to the grassroots, empower officers with technology and training, and make our communities safer,” said Oyerinde. “This is the Lagos we are building: proactive, connected, and resilient.”
“Residents are already beginning to feel the impact. With officers better equipped with flashlights, tasers, safety jackets, ID badges, and communication tools, community engagement has intensified, and the response to minor disputes, emergencies, and suspicious activities has reportedly improved,” he stated.
As the state continues to invest in localised security, Oyerinde called on residents to partner with the agency.
“Security is a shared responsibility. Our officers are your neighbours, and together, we can ensure a safer Lagos for all,” he said.