Safety and security are fundamental to the prosperity of any nation, and Lagos, Nigeria’s most significant state, is no exception. As a sprawling megalopolis, Lagos faces inherent security challenges and threats, but Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has been proactive in addressing and mitigating these issues.
One of Sanwo-Olu’s campaign promises was to create a secure environment for life and property, as outlined in his ambitious T.H.E.M.E.S development agenda—Traffic Management and Transportation, Health and Environment, Education and Technology, Making Lagos a 21st Century State, Entertainment and Tourism, and Security and Governance.
Since taking office, Governor Sanwo-Olu has demonstrated his commitment to security through innovative initiatives and unwavering support for security agencies, aiming to make Lagos a premier destination for living, working, and investing in Africa.
REPORT SHOWS LAGOS HAS LOWEST KIDNAP CASES AMONG STATES
The effectiveness of security policies is often reflected in their outcomes. Governor Sanwo-Olu recently received positive feedback on his security measures through a report by SBM Intelligence, which highlighted Lagos as having one of the lowest rates of kidnap-for-ransom cases.
The report, titled “Grim Reaping: Economics of Nigeria’s Kidnap Industry – A 2024 Update,” covered the period from July 2023 to June 2024 and revealed that 7,568 people were abducted in 1,130 incidents across Nigeria. Zamfara, Kaduna, and Katsina reported the highest numbers of incidents and victims. Zamfara led with 132 incidents, 1,639 victims, and 146 civilian deaths, followed by Kaduna with 113 incidents and 1,113 victims, and Katsina with 119 incidents and 887 victims.
In contrast, Lagos, with its estimated 24 million residents and a daily influx of over 100,000 people, recorded only seven cases of kidnap. This is a notable achievement, especially considering the state’s socio-economic challenges. Lagos also saw no armed robbery attacks on financial institutions for the fourth consecutive year, marking the longest period without such incidents in two decades.
GOVERNOR SANWO-OLU’S COMMITMENT TO SECURITY
Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration has made significant investments in security, including providing communication gadgets, ballistic vests, helmets, anti-riot vehicles, Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs), and additional patrol vehicles and motorcycles for the police. The Neighbourhood Security Watch has also been expanded.
“This administration is dedicated to working closely with security agencies to enhance governance and ensure a secure environment for socio-economic activities,” Governor Sanwo-Olu stated. “We believe that investing in security is crucial, as the security and welfare of the people remain the primary duty of any government.”
