Lagos security agency plans overseas training for officers

By Diden Abigail Owuntarose

The Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF) has announced plans to explore overseas training opportunities for security operatives as part of efforts to improve professionalism, operational efficiency and public safety across the state.

The Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Fund, Dr Ayodele Ogunsan, disclosed this during the October edition of the agency’s monthly Statewide Inter-Agency Training Programme.

Ogunsan said the Fund would sustain its monthly training initiative, which was introduced in March, and expand its reach to more security agencies over the next five years.

He explained that the programme brings together military, paramilitary and other security personnel operating in Lagos to promote cooperation, mutual understanding and effective responses to security challenges.

According to him, the Fund is also exploring opportunities to work with foreign missions and international partners to provide additional training for officers outside the country.

He encouraged security personnel to prepare themselves for such opportunities by investing in personal development and maintaining good financial habits, including saving towards the cost of obtaining international passports.

Ogunsan noted that selection for overseas training opportunities would depend on officers’ preparedness rather than preferential treatment.

The LSSTF chief also disclosed that the Fund was extending its engagement to other security institutions, including the Nigeria Customs Service and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, to strengthen collaboration in tackling crime.

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He added that a special training session would be organised in December, featuring practical exercises to prepare security personnel for their responsibilities during the 2027 general elections.

Ogunsan stressed that the preparedness and conduct of officers deployed during the elections would be critical to ensuring peaceful and credible polls.

Meanwhile, security expert Dr Wale Adeagbo called for improved professional standards and operational coordination among security agencies, noting that effective security management requires accountability, communication, emotional intelligence and public trust.

The October training programme also featured health and wellness interventions, including free medical checks and screening for participating officers.

The development forms part of the LSSTF’s broader efforts to strengthen the capacity of security agencies and improve the protection of lives and property across Lagos State.