Behind every effective security architecture lies strong public institutions which provide the capacity and resources deployed to deliver it. For the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), the delivery of a purpose-built headquarters, singlehandedly funded and constructed by philanthropist and business magnate Sir Kesington Adebukunola Adebutu, GCON, demonstrates institutional evolution for an agency central to Lagos State’s security funding, ending its dependence on rented office accommodation.
The new headquarters was officially commissioned today by the Governor of Lagos State, Gov. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, to bring to fruition a building project which commenced 10 months ago. The LSSTF headquarters now stands as a testament of what private philanthropy can accomplish when aligned with a clearly defined public interest.
Speaking at the official commissioning event, Gov. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu stated: “Today is significant because in September 2007, we started this journey under the leadership of Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola. Our pioneer Chairman, Chief Remi Makanjuola is also here today. We started gradually and within the first few months of the administration of the Fund, we were able to get 400 vehicles. Today is also significant because Baba Kessington Adebukunola Adebutu GCON is always on the lookout for something new which is the beauty of life. This is why we know that God will keep preserving his life because he has shown that philanthropy is not by the word of mouth. We want to thank God that He has used each and everyone of us to be part of this journey.”
“LSSTF now has a bigger role and responsibility especially with the introduction of State Police with the commitment of our President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR. We want Lagos State to be the best in security. This current Executive Secretary/CEO, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan in one year has raised the bar. We had this land for about 2 years but a few days after assuming office, he gave himself the commitment to work with the Board to ensure that this place is built. We will not relent on our commitment but we need partners for the LSSTF.”
At the heart of this milestone is Sir Kesington Adebukunola Adebutu GCON, whose decision to singlehandedly build the facility has translated a declaration of public commitment into a tangible institutional asset. Sir Kessington Adebukunola Adebutu highlighted: “I consider myself blessed to have contributed my humble quota. I want to thank Lagosians for this opportunity because at the age of 13, I came to Lagos and lived at Okobaba from the Year 1948 so inside me is a Lagos boy. Today I am 91, I am donating an institution, so I give all glory to the good Lord. This commissioning is historic because this landmark building represents more than bricks. It is a proof of my commitment to security. I have always believed that our blessings are not for us to enjoy alone but also to deploy to humanity. My prayer is that this building will serve generations unborn. May Almighty God continue to bless Lagos State and protect its citizens and grant our leaders the wisdom to sustain its security.”
In his welcome remarks, Chairman of the LSSTF Board, Mr. Kehinde Durosinmi Etti said: “Today is a day of fulfillment for the mandate that created the LSSTF. It’s nostalgic for me having served as one of the members of the pioneer board under Chairman Remi Makanjuola. An occasion like this provides an opportunity to celebrate individuals and organizations who have supported the agency. We are very grateful to Sir Kesington Adebukunola Adebutu GCON. Barely a week into his coming to office, Dr. Ogunsan secured the man who has singlehandedly built this office. We thank him for this milestone and for his continued dedication.”
In the same vein, the Executive Secretary/CEO of the LSSTF Board, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan shared: “I wish to express my sincere appreciation to Gov. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu for finding me worthy of this appointment. Thank you for reposing confidence in me. For 19 years, the Fund worked from a rented apartment. When I set out with this vision, I reached out to my father, who has been a benefactor to me, Baba Kesington Adebukunola Adebutu GCON. Our conversation was to help turn the reality for a befitting office on the land that was granted by the Gov. Sanwo-Olu. The aspiration for a befitting headquarters has been realized today.”
He also expressed profound appreciation to the philanthropist, Baba Kesington Adebukunola Adebutu GCON, describing his contribution as visionary and impactful. He noted that the donation reflected Adebutu’s commitment to the safety, stability and progress of Lagos State. Thereafter, the wife of the CEO, Dr. Mrs. Ajoke Olufunmilola Ogunsan took the birthday song in celebration of Sir Kesington Adebutu 91st birthday.
“We have gathered to commission this office on the eve of your 91st birthday. You have also graciously given 5 pick-up vehicles to LSSTF for your 91st birthday. This will remain a significant milestone in my record of service as LSSTF CEO. This will also become a legacy in your life for your commitment to security in Lagos State,” Dr. Ogunsan expressed.
Dignitaries present at the event include the Secretary to the Lagos State Government; Mrs. Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin; Lagos Chief of Staff, Tayo Ayinde; Lagos Head of Service, Bode Agoro; Deputy Chief of Staff, Sam Egube, and pioneer Chairman of LSSTF Board, Chief Remi Makanjuola. The royal fathers include Oba Rilwan Osuolale Akiolu represented by the white cap chiefs of Lagos led by High Chief Lateef Ajose, and Oba Olufolarin Ogunsanwo.
Others are the Chairman of the LSSTF Board, Kehinde Durosinmi Etti; members of the board including DIG Agboola Oshodi Glover (retd); Hon. Sesan Olowa, Chairman of Conference 57; Ayo Otuyalo; Ubon Udoh, CEO of ASR Initiative; and the CEO of First Bank, Olusegun Alebiosu. Other special guests are the sole donor of the building, Sir Kesington Adebukunola Adebutu GCON and his wife, Mrs. Kofoworola Adebutu, the wife of the LSSTF CEO, Dr. Mrs. Ajoke Olufunmilola Ogunsan; PCRC Lagos Chairman, Apostle Kehinde Showemimo, among others.
The security agencies present include the IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu represented by AIG Simeon Akpanudom; the three service chiefs in Lagos, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Fatai Tijani; the CEO of Lagos Neighborhood Safety Agency (LNSA), Dr. Ifalade Oyekan; among others.
The commissioning of the Sir Kesington Adebutu Security Trust Fund Building marks a significant chapter in the development of Lagos State’s security financing architecture. It ends LSSTF’s reliance on rented premises, provides a permanent home for its administrative operations and stands as evidence of what purposeful philanthropy can achieve when directed towards a shared public good.
