Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has renewed calls for stronger regional collaboration and state policing as part of efforts to address growing security challenges in the South-West.
Eko Hot News reports that the Governor, alongside security agencies, traditional rulers, lawmakers, and civil society groups, made the call during the South-West Zonal Security Summit held in Ikeja and convened by the Senate Ad-Hoc Committee on National Security.
At the summit, Governor Sanwo-Olu—represented by Dr Ayodele Ogunsan of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund—emphasised the need for indigenous solutions, advanced technology, and a unified approach to regional security. He called for strengthening Amotekun into a coordinated, well-equipped command capable of cross-state intelligence sharing, stressing that traditional rulers must remain central to community-based safety efforts.
Sanwo-Olu noted that insecurity threatens not only peace but economic stability, affecting markets, transportation, farmlands, and investment across the region. He highlighted the importance of intelligence-driven strategies, early-warning systems, enhanced surveillance, and strong partnerships with youth groups, farmers, transport unions, vigilante networks, and civil society.
The Governor pledged Lagos State’s full cooperation with the Senate Committee and neighbouring states, reaffirming a commitment to securing the South-West and protecting future generations.
Senator Adetokunbo Abiru, chairing the zonal hearings, warned that rising incidents of banditry, kidnapping, and violent attacks demand urgent collective action to prevent further spread into the region. He urged all stakeholders, including the media, to promote unity and support efforts aimed at strengthening national security.
Other speakers—including Senator Ibrahim Jimoh, Senator Gbenga Daniel, Lagos State Commissioner of Police Moshood Jimoh, traditional rulers led by Oba Olufolarin Ogunsanwo, and Yoruba leader Iba Gani Adams—reiterated that state policing remains critical to addressing localised threats. They also recommended better funding, modern technology, expanded recruitment, and improved welfare for security personnel.
Civil society representatives, youth groups, and religious leaders echoed these positions, calling for broader cooperation to safeguard communities and curb rising insecurity across the South-West.
