….As CP Jimoh, LSSTF CEO Ogunsan tour newly activated CCTV Monitoring center
- Lagos Police Boss lauds Minister of Works Umahi, Gov. Sanwo-Olu, IGP Egbetokun
The Lagos State Government and the Lagos Police Command on Wednesday 14th January intensified security operations on the Third Mainland Bridge and it’s environment with the deployment of Marine Police boats and ground patrols new operational vehicles donated by the Lagos State Security Trust Fund, LSSTF, and the tour of the recently commissioned Third Mainland Bridge CCTV Monitoring Center provided by the Federal Ministry of Works supported with marine boat by the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, National Association of Online Security News Publishers, NAOSNP can report.
The Commissioner of Police, Lagos Command, CP Olorundare Jimoh alongside the Executive Secretary/CEO of LSSTF, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan and senior Police officers of Lagos Command led a comprehensive tour of the newly activated control centre, which is designated Channel 5, the fifth control hub in Lagos. The construction of the Centre was facilitated and handed over to the Police by the Honorable Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi.
Speaking during the tour, CP Olohundare Jimoh described the project as a major boost to preventive policing, citizen’s safety, and infrastructure protection. “When we talk about protection and safety, it involves the protection of lives and property and the safety of huge investments of the Federal Government, Lagos State Government, and other multinationals that pass through the Third Mainland Bridge daily,” he said.
He added that the Police had already begun deploying the facility effectively. “We have started using it. The cameras can zoom, capture images, and track movements inward and outward of the bridge, extending into Victoria Island, Ikoyi, and deep into the mainland.”
The Commissioner disclosed that a dedicated Third Mainland Bridge Unit had been created, with its Officer Commanding reporting directly to him through the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations. The unit is supported by new patrol vehicles and a strengthened marine component to ensure round-the-clock coverage of the bridge and adjoining waterways.
To boost operational mobility, the Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi donated two Hilux patrol vehicles, which CP Jimoh said were being branded and would be deployed within hours. In addition, the LSSTF provided two operational vehicles, which have already been deployed to strategic locations at Oworoshoki Bus Stop (inward Third Mainland Bridge) and the Adekunle axis under the bridge. The vehicles form part of the ‘Eko Strike Force’ deployment aimed at rapid response and visible policing.
Marine security also received a significant boost with the donation of a patrol boats by the Minister of Works and an additional boat by the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olukayode Adeolu Egbetokun.
CP Jimoh formally launched the Marine Police Boats, noting that patrols had commenced in earnest. “One boat cannot work in isolation. That is why we have deployed additional patrol and gunboats to make the area formidable and secure the entire waterway,” he said, adding that the Submarine Tactical Squad was complementing the Marine Police to provide enhanced firepower.
Engr. Umahi also pledged monthly allowance incentives for officers working at the CCTV Control Centre, as well as maintenance support for the facility. CP Jimoh described the pledge as critical to sustainability. “When you provide allowances and maintenance, it ensures durability and continuity of the project,” he said.
Addressing traffic and public safety concerns, the Police boss warned reckless drivers and those attempting to engage in unlawful acts on or around the bridge. “This technology will help us in real-time prevention and detection of crimes, including traffic-related offences, acts of vandalism, and attempts to jump into the lagoon,” he said, urging motorists to maintain the stipulated 80km/h speed limit. He added that the cameras would also strengthen accident investigations by providing first-hand visual evidence of incidents.
Dr. Ayo Ogunsan, Executive Secretary/CEO of the LSSTF at the event, commend the Lagos State Police Command for its professionalism and effective use of security interventions. He praised the Minister of Works for finding Lagos worthy of such a critical security investment. He also thanked the Executive Governor of Lagos, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu for entrenching safety, security, and robust development under the THEMES-plus agenda.
“What we are seeing here today is a clear demonstration of strategic collaboration,” Ogunsan said. “The Lagos Police Command has shown capacity and readiness to deploy these assets effectively, while the Honourable Minister of Works has demonstrated foresight by supporting security around a critical national infrastructure.”
Ogunsan reaffirmed LSSTF’s commitment to supporting policing in Lagos, noting that the Lagos State Government is solidly behind the Trust Fund to provide logistics and operational support to enhance response time and public safety. “When technology, mobility, and trained manpower come together, the impact on security is immediate and sustainable,” he said.
CP Jimoh expressed appreciation to Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for sustained logistical support to security agencies, and to Dr. Ogunsan and the LSSTF for consistent interventions. He also thanked IGP Egbetokun for continued support for the Command, including the provision of marine assets and communication equipment.
The Police assured Lagosians and visitors that marine and ground patrols would operate 24/7 in synergy with the CCTV Monitoring Centre and upgraded radio communication network. Members of the public are encouraged to go about their lawful activities without fear or apprehension, assuring that the Third Mainland Bridge and its surrounding waterways are now under enhanced surveillance and protection.
Other dignitaries at the tour includes; the Deputy Commissioner of Police, DC Admin, DCP Khan Salihu; DC State CID, DCP Dayo Akinbisehin; Area Commanders from various Area Commands; Tactical Squad Commanders; CEO of Badinson Security Services, Mr. Matthew Ibadin and among others.
