By Sodiq Adelakun
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Monday praised philanthropist and elder statesman Dr Kensington Adebutu for donating a purpose-built facility to strengthen the operations of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), as work officially began on the new building.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Sanwo-Olu said the project highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships in promoting safety, peace, and economic growth in Africa’s most populous city.
He noted that the facility, scheduled for completion by October 2026, would provide a lasting institutional home for the LSSTF and improve coordination among security agencies in the state.
“This project will outlive all of us. It speaks to continuity, legacy and the belief that institutions must be strengthened beyond individuals,” the governor said, commending Adebutu’s patriotism and describing the donation as a reflection of selfless leadership and service to humanity.
“We will ensure that there are no unnecessary variations. By August or September 2026, we expect finishing works so that this facility can be ready as planned,” he added, stressing that the state would closely monitor progress.
“As a government, security remains our primary responsibility, and with the support of fathers like Dr Adebutu, we will not drop the ball,” Sanwo-Olu said, urging security chiefs, board members and partners to remain vigilant in keeping Lagos safe.
“This facility represents a major boost to security governance in the state and reflects LSSTF’s status as a national model for security funding and coordination, thanks to consistency, transparency and committed partnerships,” the governor added.
In his remarks, Dr Adebutu said his intervention was driven by a deep sense of duty to Lagos State and its people. He emphasised that security was central to the identity of Lagos as Nigeria’s commercial nerve centre.
“This call to duty resonates strongly within me. I regard it not merely as a privilege, but as a responsibility to our beloved Lagos State, the heart of Nigeria’s commerce and enterprise,” Adebutu said.
He added that the project marked a decisive step toward safeguarding lives and property, securing markets, and ensuring Lagos remains a sanctuary of peace, stability, and opportunity.
Adebutu described the building as a monument to collective responsibility, stressing that purposeful use of resources leaves a lasting legacy for generations.
The Chairman of the LSSTF board, Kehinde Durosinmi-Etti, and Executive Secretary, Dr Ayodele Ogunsan, applauded the governor for his commitment to security development.
The event was attended by Lagos State Deputy Governor Dr Obafemi Hamzat, top government officials, security chiefs, and other stakeholders.