The Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF) has taken a decisive step toward strengthening Nigeria’s domestic security manufacturing ecosystem following a high-level engagement with Equipment and Protective Applications International Limited EPAIL Nigeria, a leading indigenous defence and security technology company.
The Executive Secretary/CEO of LSSTF, Ayo Ogunsan, accompanied by Director of Administration Mr. Degbola Lewis, met the organization’s Managing Director/CEO, Engr. Kola Balogun, and Director of Engineering, AVM Olabisi (retd) on a courtesy visit to the company’s facility. Discussions centred on strategic collaboration and procurement of high-quality security equipment and gears to kit operatives of various security agencies across Lagos State.
The LSSTF’s proposed procurement plan with EPAIL Nigeria signals a deliberate shift toward local content development, enhancing Made-in-Nigeria policy, and import substitution within the security value chain. By prioritizing indigenous procurement, the Fund aims to conserve foreign exchange, stimulate job creation, and deepen technical capacity within Nigeria’s defence manufacturing sector.
The LSSTF boss, Dr. Ayo Ogunsan emphasized ‘leveraging local expertise is not only economically prudent but strategically imperative.’
‘Indigenous production enables faster delivery timelines, customization to local operational realities, and long-term sustainability of security investments. We are glad to be able to source topgrade security hardware from home,’ he said.
Established in 2014, EPAIL Nigeria has distinguished itself as Nigeria’s pioneer ballistic manufacturer, with a dedicated production facility for bulletproof vests, ballistic helmets, and other defence-grade equipment. The company also maintains a robust research and development framework focused on advancing indigenous security technologies and has delivered risk assessment and infrastructure protection solutions across all 36 states of the federation.
Its product range spans personal protective gear, surveillance systems, and advanced security applications tailored for both public and private sector clients. Alongside its adherence to international manufacturing standards, EPAIL Nigeria positions it as a critical player in Nigeria’s evolving defence industrial base.
The engagement reflects a broader policy alignment between security enhancement and economic development, and positions local manufacturing as a cornerstone of national resilience and a catalyst for industrial growth.