The Lagos State Government has reiterated its dedication to creating safer communities by integrating citizen feedback directly into its security strategies.
This reaffirmation came during a recent stakeholders’ meeting to review findings from a public perception survey on the effectiveness of security forces.
Held by the Debt Management Office, the meeting brought together representatives from government, various security agencies, civil society groups, and development partners.
READ ALSO: Maintenance: DisCos assure Lagosians electricity restoration by 5 p.m daily
The focus of the gathering was to analyse the results of the “People’s Perception Survey on Security Formations and their Impact on the Safety of Lives and Property.”
Kadiri Semiu Olajide, the Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Chief of Staff, explained that the survey served as a vital feedback mechanism to promote inclusive governance and responsive security planning.
He noted that the survey, which polled residents across the state, was designed to gauge how citizens perceive the “visibility, effectiveness, and impact” of security agencies.
According to Olajide, the government’s aim is to measure whether its substantial investments in security are making a tangible difference at the grassroots level.
He highlighted the state’s consistent focus on security, which has led to its reputation as one of Nigeria’s safest states.
He cited the recent donation of over 300 new vehicles and other security assets to various agencies via the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF) as a testament to this commitment.
Olajide stressed that while progress is evident, public validation is crucial to truly assess the efficacy of these interventions.
He described the survey as a “citizen-driven compass” that will guide future policy decisions and ensure they are responsive to the needs of Lagosians.
In a keynote address delivered by her representative, Olayinka Ojo, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget, praised the survey as an essential tool for evidence-based policy formulation.
She emphasised that security is fundamental to sustainable development, enabling economic activity and social stability.
READ ALSO: Lagos doctors embark on 3-day warning strike over salary cuts
Acknowledging the unique security challenges of Lagos as a major commercial and population hub, she noted that the government’s efforts, led by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, have included revitalising the LSSTF.
She also said these include deploying over 1,000 vehicles and advanced communication gear, establishing the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Corps (LNSC), and enhancing the Command-and-Control Centre for emergency coordination.
