The Lagos State Security Trust Fund LSSTF has unveiled a major community-focused security initiative aimed at curbing crime, cultism, drug abuse, and youth violence across the state. The programme, known as the Lagos State Security Trust Fund Campaign Against Crime, Cultism and Other Vices (LSSTF-CACCOV), was officially unveiled today Friday by the Fund’s Executive Secretary/CEO, Dr. Ayo Ogunsan.
Speaking at the launch, Ogunsan emphasized that sustainable safety in Lagos State requires more than enforcement-driven measures. He explained that LSSTF-CACCOV was conceptualized to address the root causes of insecurity through education, advocacy, mentorship, and strengthened community structures.
According to him, cultism and related vices flourish where young people lack guidance, positive engagement, and credible role models. The new campaign therefore seeks to reduce the appeal of criminal activities by driving value-based reorientation, school outreach programmes, community walks, and multi-stakeholder partnerships involving families, schools, traditional rulers, faith-based groups, civil society organizations, and security agencies.
“Our vision is to foster a secure, peaceful, and crime-resistant Lagos where young people are empowered to thrive as responsible and productive citizens. Our mission is clear: to combat cultism, drug abuse, and violent crimes by reshaping youth mindsets, strengthening community partnerships, and promoting preventive advocacy initiatives that create safer neighborhoods across the State.”
He added that the Fund remains committed to supporting security agencies with operational resources while investing in long-term preventive strategies.
In his acceptance remarks on behalf of the 7-man committee, the State Coordinator of LSSTF-CACCOV, Dr. Moses Oladimeji said: “This initiative is very important because Lagos is the economic hub of Nigeria and we have over 33% of young Nigerians struggling with drugs.
“”We believe we can do better by talking to people, knowing what they do and connecting them to opportunities where they can get vocational skills and they can be engaged. By the end of the year, for example, 100s of them can be on exhibition at the LSSTF Town Hall meeting showcasing their products and services.”
The LSSTF says the initiative will promote a more secure, peaceful, and crime-resistant environment where young people can thrive productively.