The Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG) responsible for Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and South-West coordinating duties, Mr Adegoke Fayoade, has identified Lagos as the most challenging state to police in Nigeria due to its population size, strategic relevance, and evolving security concerns.
Fayoade made the observation on Monday during an official visit to the Lagos State Police Command Headquarters in Ikeja, where he assessed the command’s operations and security efforts.
According to the DIG, the state’s estimated population of more than 20 million people makes it imperative for law enforcement agencies to adopt proactive and intelligence-based policing methods.
“Lagos remains the most complex policing environment in the country. Its population size and strategic nature demand a well-structured, responsive, and intelligence-led policing system,” he said.
He emphasised the importance of strengthening partnerships with communities and other security agencies, while also leveraging technology and intelligence gathering to address security threats effectively.
Fayoade noted that traffic control plays a significant role in maintaining law and order in the state, adding that effective traffic management contributes to overall public safety.
The senior police officer praised the Lagos State Police Command for its ability to operate effectively despite the demanding nature of policing the state.
While acknowledging persistent threats such as armed robbery and cult-related crimes, he commended officers for their commitment to curbing criminal activities.
He also expressed confidence in the leadership of the Commissioner of Police, Mr Fatai Tijani, describing him as an experienced officer with extensive operational knowledge of Lagos.
The DIG further appreciated the support provided by the Lagos State Government under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, as well as the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF).
He noted that assistance in areas such as logistics, welfare, and operational resources had strengthened police activities across the state.
He specifically highlighted recent support given to the Violent Crime Response Unit, including the provision of vehicles, protective equipment, and tactical tools, saying the intervention had enhanced officer safety and improved response times.
Fayoade equally acknowledged the contributions of the Police Community Relations Committee, the Eminent Persons Forum, and other stakeholders who continue to support security initiatives in Lagos.
He urged officers to intensify intelligence gathering efforts, increase police visibility across communities, and uphold professionalism, accountability, and public confidence in the force.
“The expectations of the public are high, and Lagos must continue to set the standard for policing in Nigeria,” he said.
Reassuring residents, the DIG reiterated the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to protecting lives and property.
He also reaffirmed the determination of the Inspector-General of Police, Mr Olatunji Disu, to sustain peace and deepen public trust in policing nationwide.
Speaking during the visit, the Commissioner of Police, Mr Fatai Tijani, said the command had achieved notable success in reducing major crimes through intelligence-driven policing and the deployment of modern security strategies.
Tijani disclosed that since assuming office in March, the command had recorded significant breakthroughs against armed robbery, cultism, kidnapping, and other violent offences.
He revealed that within the review period, police operatives arrested 71 suspected armed robbers, 133 suspected cultists, and 35 murder suspects. He added that officers recovered 60 firearms and 625 rounds of ammunition during various operations.
The commissioner attributed the achievements to the backing of the Inspector-General of Police, Mr Olatunji Disu, the Lagos State Government, the LSSTF, Mr Ayo Ogunsan, and other stakeholders.
Despite the successes, Tijani disclosed that seven police officers lost their lives while carrying out their duties, while several others sustained injuries during operations.
He assured residents that the command would remain steadfast in its efforts to combat crime and guarantee the safety and security of people living in Lagos State.