‘More needs to be done’ — Sanwo-Olu tasks army on improved security in Lagos

Babajide Sanwo-Olu, governor of Lagos, has charged the military on improving efforts to ensure security in the state.

Sanwo-Olu said this on Monday, when he received Faruk Yahaya, chief of army staff (COAS), and other military officers who were on a visit to Lagos.

The governor, who urged officers in military commands across the state to be committed to their constitutional responsibilities of ensuring peace and security in Lagos, promised to support the army’s efforts.

“Lagos has uniquely not only the land borders, it is also an international route in and out of the country through the air and waterways. The relationship we have been enjoying between the State Government and the entire security agencies, especially the Nigerian Army, has been commendable,” he said, according to a statement issued by the state on Monday.

“I acknowledge the leadership role being played by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division with other security agencies in raising the bar of security surveillance, training, information sharing and collaboration in operations.

“From this robust engagement, we have developed a mechanism in which every agency works in synergy with others to improve the State’s security architecture. We have continued to experience improved security, calmness and safety. But there is much that needs to be done and this requires total commitment of our personnel.

“We will continue to give support to the security agencies to ensure not only their safety and that of the residents, but also the safety of visitors coming to do business in Lagos.”

While addressing the army chief, the Lagos governor commended him for his efforts since assuming office, particularly in terms of addressing security challenges across the country.

“In the last four months you took over the leadership of the Nigerian Army, we have seen all the strategic efforts you’ve started to bring in. We know that, at some point in time, it would get to our turn in Lagos to further raise the morale of your men serving here,” he said.

In his remarks, Yahaya commended the collaboration between the army and other security agencies in Lagos, and appreciated the governor for his support.

“We will do our best to ensure security is enhanced across Lagos and other parts of the country,” the army chief added.

Officers who were with the army chief included L.A. Fejokwu, general officer commanding 81 division; S.O. Olabanji, commander of training and doctrine; O.A. Akintade, chief of logistics, and O.T. Akinjobi, chief of army operations.

Others are D.I. Salihu, chief of military intelligence; M.L. Saraso, commander of 9th brigade; O.R. Aiyenigba, provost marshal, and A.M. Umar, chief of staff to the COAS.