By Mardiyyah Abubakar
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu says state police operations could begin before the end of 2026 or in the first quarter of 2027.
He disclosed this on Friday during the inauguration of the Kessington Adebutu Security Trust Fund building in Ikeja, Lagos.
Sanwo-Olu said the Lagos State Security Trust Fund would play a greater role in providing funding, logistics and operational support for the proposed state police.
He described the establishment of state police as long overdue, adding that Lagos was ready to implement the initiative once the necessary approval was granted.
The governor also assured serving police officers that the new arrangement would not disrupt existing operations or threaten their jobs.
He said the state would work with the existing police formation to ensure a smooth transition and provide the resources needed to support effective security operations.
Sanwo-Olu urged individuals and organisations to support security initiatives, stressing that protecting lives and property required collective responsibility.
He recalled that the Lagos State Security Trust Fund was established in September 2007 under former Governor Babatunde Fashola to mobilise resources for security operations.
The fund’s Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer, Dr Ayodele Ogunsan, said the newly inaugurated building would strengthen its capacity to mobilise voluntary contributions from individuals and organisations.
Ogunsan noted that the fund had operated from a rented office for nearly 19 years before securing the permanent facility.
He also disclosed that philanthropist Kessington Adebutu donated five new pickup vehicles to the fund to mark his 91st birthday.
Adebutu said his contribution reflected his commitment to public safety and collaboration between the government and private individuals to protect lives and property.
