Lagos to Train Security Agencies for 2027 Elections

The Lagos State Security Trust Fund plans to train security operatives on their roles during the 2027 general elections. This training aims to ensure peaceful and fair polls.

On Thursday, Dr Ayodele Ogunsan, the Executive Secretary of the LSSTF, shared this information during the fund’s monthly Inter-Agency Training Programme for October.

Ogunsan mentioned that a special training session will take place in December. This session will include practical exercises to help security personnel tackle election-related challenges.

He pointed out that how officers perform their duties will be key to a successful election. This remains true even with assurances from political and security leaders.

“If the President of the Federal Republic called the Inspector-General of Police and said, ‘I hope you are prepared,’ that answer is a function of the preparedness of those of you in this room,” Ogunsan told the participants.

He emphasized that this training program has improved teamwork among military, paramilitary, and other security agencies in Lagos. Ogunsan credited the program for bringing together personnel from various services for collaborative learning.

“When last did you hear that a Nigerian Army officer was fighting in a police station in Lagos? It is not happening here in Lagos. If you have attended this training, you won’t raise your hand to hit the officer of another security agency. We are cooperating to fight our common enemy; that’s the essence of this training,” he explained.

The LSSTF leader revealed that the fund is working with other security bodies, such as the Nigeria Customs Service and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, to improve crime-fighting efforts.

Ogunsan stated that the monthly training will continue throughout his time in office. There are plans to involve more security agencies over the next five years and beyond.

He added that the goal is to achieve real improvements in security operations, rather than just having routine meetings.

The LSSTF chief also encouraged officers to look for overseas training opportunities through the fund's connections with foreign missions and partners. He advised them to develop good financial habits and save for personal growth, including the cost of getting international passports. Selection for these overseas trainings will depend on their readiness.

In his speech, security expert Dr Wale Adeagbo highlighted the need for security agencies to boost their professional standards and work better together in the face of more complex threats.

Adeagbo said that successful security operations need more than just force. He stressed that professionalism, accountability, communication, emotional intelligence, and public trust are vital for effective policing and security management.

Dr Oluwadamilola Diya, Executive Director and Deputy Director of Clinical Services at Atlantis Paediatric and Multi-specialist Hospital, said that health support is important for officers who risk their lives to protect the community.

“We want to protect our protectors. Most of these security agencies’ officers, who usually put their lives on the line, put their families on the line to ensure that they protect us citizens of Lagos,” Diya said.

Diya introduced the FRESH Protocol, which focuses on food, reducing stress, exercise, sleep, and health checks and vaccinations, to help improve officers' health and well-being.

Titilayo Akindele, a clinical nutrition consultant and founder of NutriFull Clinical Services, advised the officers against eating too much fried street food, sugary drinks, and instant noodles.

“Your body is the most important piece of equipment. You maintain your weapon, your vehicle, and your gear. Your body deserves the same discipline,” she said.

Akindele encouraged officers to plan their meals, prepare food in advance where they can, stay hydrated, and choose healthier drink options.