Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has announced that state police operations could commence before the end of 2026 or in the first quarter of 2027.
Speaking on Friday at the unveiling of the Kessington Adebutu Security Trust Fund building in Ikeja, Sanwo-Olu said the establishment of state police would expand the responsibilities of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund, particularly in providing funding, logistics, and operational support.
“We’re excited, we’re looking forward to the formation of the state police because we believe that it’s long overdue. Possibly before the end of the year, or maybe in the first quarter next year, we will now have state police in every one of our states,” he stated.
The governor assured serving police officers that the introduction of state police would not disrupt existing operations or threaten job security, stressing that collaboration would be maintained between federal and state formations.
Sanwo-Olu recalled that the Lagos State Security Trust Fund, established in 2007 under former Governor Babatunde Fashola, had played a crucial role in supporting security operations, including raising over 300 vehicles within its first four months.
He urged individuals and organisations to continue supporting government efforts, noting that protecting lives and property was a shared responsibility.
The unveiling of the new building, donated by philanthropist Kessington Adebutu, marked a milestone for the trust fund, which had operated from rented offices for nearly 19 years.
Adebutu also donated five pickup vehicles to the fund as part of his 91st birthday celebration, describing the gesture as his contribution to public safety and responsible citizenship.
Executive Secretary of the fund, Dr Ayodele Ogunsan, said the permanent office would strengthen the organisation’s capacity to mobilise voluntary contributions and channel resources towards improving security across Lagos.