South West Security Summit Calls for State Policing, Indigenous Solutions and Tech-Driven Strategies to Tackle Insecurity

By Bilkis Abdulraheem Lawal

Stakeholders from security agencies, government institutions, and traditional councils have called for the adoption of indigenous security solutions, advanced technology, and the establishment of state policing as lasting measures to curb the rising wave of insecurity across Nigeria.

This resolution emerged at the South West Zonal National Security Summit organised by the Senate in partnership with the Lagos State Government, held in Ikeja.

Senator Tokunbo Abiru, representing Lagos East Senatorial District, said similar summits were taking place simultaneously across all six geopolitical zones as part of a nationwide consultative effort.

Senator Abiru emphasised the need for stronger collaboration among security agencies, government structures, and local communities to prevent insecurity from escalating further.

Delivering a message on behalf of Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund, Mr. Ayodele Ogunsan, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to robust security management.

He stressed that security is critical not only for peace but also for Nigeria’s economic sustainability, calling for a strengthened regional security architecture.

Representing traditional rulers, the Alara of Ilara in Epe, Oba Olufolarin Ogunsanwo, urged the adoption of community policing, deployment of modern technology, formation of joint task forces, and the annual recruitment of at least 30,000 police personnel.

He also advocated increased funding, improved equipment, and expanded job opportunities to curb youth restiveness.

Senator Ibrahim Jimoh of Ondo South, the bill sponsor for the national security summit and an expert in War Studies, noted that Boko Haram and terrorism represent non-conventional warfare that demands a coordinated military-civilian response rather than a purely aggressive approach.

The Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, reinforced that state policing remains the most practical strategy for safeguarding communities nationwide.

The summit brought together representatives of major security agencies, including Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Jimoh Olohunwa, as well as traditional and religious leaders, civil society groups, LASTMA, Neighbourhood Watch, KAI, and other stakeholders.