In response to the growing security demands of a rapidly expanding megacity, the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), has established a dedicated Intelligence Unit to harness citizen-generated information and strengthen intelligence-led policing across the state.

The initiative, unveiled yesterday at the LSSTF headquarters in Alausa, Ikeja, is designed to bridge the gap between residents and security agencies by providing structured channels for the submission of actionable intelligence in the form of videos, photographs and audio messages.

Speaking at the launch, the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of LSSTF, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan, described the development as a major step towards enhancing public safety through collaboration and technology.

“Today marks a significant step forward in our collective commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Lagos State,” Ogunsan said. “The Lagos State Security Trust Fund is establishing an Intelligence Unit dedicated to receiving security-related information from members of the public and ensuring its timely transmission to relevant security agencies.”

At the core of the initiative are two dedicated messaging-only security tip lines — 0911 019 5555 and 0916 201 1179 — through which residents can submit credible information on security concerns within their communities.

Ogunsan explained that the platform was deliberately structured to encourage the flow of verifiable intelligence while maintaining strict standards of confidentiality and professionalism.

According to him, the initiative underscores the critical role of citizens in the security ecosystem, noting that while security agencies remain at the forefront of maintaining law and order, their effectiveness is significantly enhanced by timely and credible information from the public.

“Security is a shared responsibility. While our security agencies continue to work tirelessly, the role of citizens in providing credible information cannot be overstated,” he said.

He added that the Intelligence Unit leverages modern technology to improve situational awareness and support more informed decision-making by relevant authorities.

“Through these platforms, individuals can submit information, photographs and video recordings relating to security concerns. This initiative harnesses technology and citizen participation to strengthen intelligence gathering and response,” he noted.

The LSSTF boss, however, clarified that the tip lines are not designed for emergency response, urging residents to continue using established emergency channels for urgent intervention.

“It is important to state clearly that these are not emergency lines. They are strictly for information gathering, analysis and strategic security planning,” he said.

Ogunsan also warned against the misuse of the platform, stressing that the success of the initiative depends on the integrity of information received.

“We strongly urge users to ensure that any material submitted is clear, accurate and verifiable. Any malicious use of this platform, including the submission of false or misleading information, will not be tolerated and may attract serious consequences,” he cautioned.

During a question-and-answer session, he emphasised that the Intelligence Unit is not intended to duplicate the functions of existing security agencies but to complement them.

“We are not taking over the responsibilities of the Command and Control Centre or other agencies. This is an intervention to support them and to provide a channel for residents who may not be able to reach security agencies directly,” he said.

Highlighting a unique feature of the system, Ogunsan disclosed that the lines are configured strictly for messaging, allowing users to send visual and audio evidence rather than make voice calls.

“It is a no-call platform. We receive videos, pictures and audio messages, which are then filtered and forwarded to the appropriate agencies for necessary action,” he explained.

He assured residents that all credible information would be treated with the highest level of discretion, with measures in place to protect the identity of informants.

Describing the initiative as a partnership-driven approach, Ogunsan said the Intelligence Unit represents a collaboration between government, security agencies and the public.

“With this initiative, we are reinforcing our role not just as providers of operational support, but as enablers of intelligence-led policing. Together, we can build a safer Lagos where vigilance is collective and response is strategic,” he added.